Saddle adjustment system

ABSTRACT

A bicycle assembly comprises a saddle adjustment assembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprising an adjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle post comprising first and second slidably coupled supports; a saddle post locking mechanism that selectively restricts sliding of the second support relative to the first support; and a saddle angle adjustment mechanism configured to couple to a bicycle saddle to enable rotation of the bicycle saddle between a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position, wherein, when the saddle post locking mechanism is in an unlocked configuration, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism enables rotation of the bicycle saddle between the first and second predetermined positions, and wherein, when the saddle post locking mechanism is in a locked configuration, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism maintains the bicycle saddle in one of the first and second predetermined positions.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates to bicycles and, in particular, saddleadjustment systems.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED TECHNOLOGY

In certain situations, it may be desirable for a cyclist to selectivelyraise or lower a saddle while he or she is riding a bicycle. Forexample, it may be advantageous to lower the saddle when going downhill.Further, it may be advantageous to raise the saddle when climbing ahill. The height of the bicycle saddle may be important in determining arider's power efficiency.

SUMMARY

The systems, methods and devices described herein have innovativeaspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsiblefor their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of theclaims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

One aspect of one embodiment is that it may be desirable for a cyclistto change the angle of a saddle while he or she is riding a bicycle. Forexample, it may be advantageous to angle the saddle forwards when thesaddle is in a raised position and to angle the saddle rearwards whenthe saddle is in a lowered position.

In some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddle adjustmentassembly comprising: an adjustable height saddle post, the adjustableheight saddle post including a first support and a second support, thesecond support configured to slidably move relative to the first supportbetween at least a raised position and a lowered position, the firstsupport configured to attach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angleadjustment mechanism coupled to the second support, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism comprising a body and a rotating assembly; whereinthe rotating assembly is configured to couple to a bicycle saddle andwherein the rotating assembly is rotatably coupled to the body; whereinthe saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate therotating assembly relative to the body as the first support movesrelative the second support between a raised position and a loweredposition.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddleadjustment assembly which comprises an adjustable height saddle post,the adjustable height saddle post including a first support and a secondsupport, the second support configured to slidably move relative to thefirst support between at least a raised position and a lowered position,the first support configured to attach to a bicycle frame, and a saddleangle adjustment mechanism coupled to the second support.

According to some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismcomprises a body.

According to some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismcomprises a rotating assembly.

According to some embodiments, the rotating assembly is configured tocouple to a bicycle saddle and wherein the rotating assembly isrotatably coupled to the body, wherein the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism is configured to rotate the rotating assembly relative to thebody as the first support moves relative the second support between araised position and a lowered position.

According to another embodiment, said saddle angle adjustment mechanismis configured to rotate between a predetermined first rotationalposition and a predetermined second rotational position.

According to another embodiment, said saddle angle adjustment mechanismrotates said rotating assembly relative the body as the second supportmoves relative the first support to the lowered position.

According to another embodiment, said bicycle assembly comprises acontroller, the actuation of which permits the height of the adjustableheight saddle post to be selectively adjusted while the bicycle is inmotion.

According to another embodiment, said saddle adjustment assemblyincludes a first surface and said rotating assembly includes a secondsurface and wherein force exerted by said first surface on said rotatingassembly causes said rotating assembly to rotate relative said body.

According to another embodiment, said bicycle assembly furthercomprising a bicycle frame.

According to another embodiment, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddleadjustment assembly which comprises a saddle angle adjustment mechanismconfigured to be supported by a bicycle seat post coupled to the secondsupport, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprising a body and arotating assembly, wherein the rotating assembly is configured to coupleto a bicycle saddle and wherein the rotating assembly is rotatablycoupled to the body, a controller, wherein the actuation of thecontroller enables the saddle adjustment assembly to permit the rotatingassembly to rotate relative the body of the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism, said controller configured to be manually actuated duringriding.

According to another embodiment, the saddle adjustment assemblycomprises an adjustable height saddle post having a first support and asecond support movable relative one another and wherein movement of saidfirst support and said second support relative one another permits therotating assembly to rotate relative the body of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism. According to another embodiment, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism further comprises a stored energy device thatrotates the rotating assembly. According to another embodiment, thestored energy device comprises at least one of the following: amechanical spring, an air spring, a resilient member.

According to another embodiment, a method of adjusting a saddle angle ofa bicycle saddle comprises affixing a first support of an adjustableheight seat post to the seat tube of a bicycle, the adjustable heightseat post having a second support slidably coupled to the first supportand configured to adjust the saddle height of the bicycle saddle, thesecond support having a saddle angle adjustment mechanism affixed to thesecond support, the bicycle saddle rotatably coupled to the saddle angleadjustment mechanism; selectively adjusting the saddle height of thebicycle saddle while riding the bicycle, wherein adjusting the saddleheight of the bicycle slides the second support relative to the firstsupport permits the bicycle saddle to be rotated.

According to another embodiment, movement of the second support relativeto the first support creates a force which rotates the saddle relativeto said saddle angel adjustment mechanism.

According to another embodiment, a saddle angle adjustment mechanism foruse with an adjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddlepost including a first support and a second support, the second supportconfigured to slidably move relative to the first support between araised position and a lowered position, the first support adapted toattach to a bicycle frame, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismcomprises a body comprising a support engaging portion, the supportengaging portion adapted to be affixed to the second support of theadjustable height saddle post; a rotating assembly adapted to couple toa bicycle saddle, the rotating assembly rotatably coupled the body;wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotatethe rotating assembly relative to the body between a first rotationalposition and a second rotational position; wherein the saddle angleadjustment mechanism is configured to lock the saddle receiver in thefirst rotational position when the second support is in the raisedposition, and wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism isconfigured to lock the saddle receiver in the second rotational positionwhen the second support is in the lowered position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle adjustment mechanism isconfigured such that movement of the second support relative to thefirst support generates a force which locks the saddle receiver in thesecond rotational position when the second support is in the loweredposition.

According to another embodiment, a saddle adjustment assembly comprisesan adjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle postincluding a first support and a second support, the second supportconfigured to slidably move relative to the first support between araised position and a lowered position, the first support adapted toattach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angle adjustment mechanism coupledto the second support, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprisinga body and a rotating assembly; wherein the rotating assembly is adaptedto couple to a bicycle saddle and wherein the rotating assembly isrotatably coupled to the body; wherein the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism is configured to rotate the rotating assembly relative to thebody between a first rotational position and a second rotationalposition; wherein the adjustable height saddle post is configured toselectably lock the first support in a raised position; wherein theadjustable height saddle post is configured to selectably lock the firstsupport in a lowered position; wherein the saddle adjustment assembly isconfigured to lock the rotating assembly in the first rotationalposition when the second support is in the raised position, and whereinthe saddle adjustment assembly is configured to lock the rotatingassembly in the second rotational position when the second support is inthe lowered position.

According to another embodiment, a method of adjusting the saddle angleof a bicycle saddle of a bicycle equipped with an adjustable heightsaddle post, the adjustable height saddle post including a first supportand a second support, the second support configured to slidably moverelative to the first support between a raised position and a loweredposition, the first support adapted to attach to a bicycle frame, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises providing a saddle angleadjustment mechanism coupled to the second support, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism comprising a rotating assembly, the saddle rotatingassembly coupled to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism about acentral axis substantially perpendicular to the second support of theadjustable height saddle post, adjusting the first support from theraised position to the lowered position, wherein the saddle angleadjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating assemblyrelative to the second support from a first rotational position to asecond rotational position when the second support is moved from theraised position to the lowered position.

According to another embodiment, a method of adjusting the saddle angleof a bicycle saddle of a bicycle equipped with an adjustable heightsaddle post, the adjustable height saddle post including a first supportand a second support, the second support configured to slidably moverelative to the first support between a raised position and a loweredposition, the first support adapted to attach to a bicycle frame, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises providing a saddle angleadjustment mechanism coupled to the second support, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism comprising a rotating assembly, the saddle receiverrotatably coupled to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism about acentral axis substantially perpendicular to the second support of theadjustable height saddle post, adjusting the first support from thelowered position to the raised position, wherein the saddle angleadjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating assemblyrelative to the second support from a second rotational position to afirst rotational position when the second support is moved from thelowered position to the raised position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismis configured to rotate the rotating assembly from the first rotationalposition to the second rotational position when the second support ismoved from the raised position to the lowered position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismis configured to rotate the rotating assembly from the second rotationalposition to the first rotational position when the second support ismoved from the lowered position to the raised position.

According to another embodiment, the lowered position of the secondsupport comprises the position within the adjustable range of theadjustable height saddle post at which the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism is closest to the first support.

According to another embodiment, the raised position of the secondsupport comprises all height positions of the second supportsignificantly above the lowered position within the adjustable range ofthe adjustable height saddle post.

According to another embodiment, the rotating assembly comprises asaddle receiver, wherein the saddle receiver comprises a pair of railreceivers dimensioned to accept saddle rails of a bicycle saddle.

According to another embodiment, the rotating assembly comprises a driveyoke, the drive yoke configured to rotate within the body of the saddleangle adjustment mechanism along with the saddle receiver between afirst rotational position and a second rotational position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismcomprises a drive channel and a drive pin, the drive pin located withinthe drive channel and configured to slide within the drive channel.

According to another embodiment, the drive channel is substantiallyparallel to the second support.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to slidebetween a first pin position and a second pin position.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to contacta portion of the adjustable height saddle post when the second supportis in a lowered position.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to slidefrom the first pin position to the second pin position when theadjustable height saddle post is adjusted to a lowered position.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to unlockthe saddle angle adjustment mechanism when the drive pin moves from thefirst pin position to the second pin position.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to contacta portion of the drive yoke when the drive pin is in a second pinposition.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin is configured to rotatethe rotating assembly from a first rotational position to a secondrotational position when the drive pin moves from the first pin positionto the second pin position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismfurther comprises a drive spring configured to bias the drive pintowards the first pin position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismfurther comprises a return spring configured to bias the drive yoketowards the first rotational position.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismfurther comprises a cam.

According to another embodiment, the drive pin includes a ramp tocooperate with the cam.

According to another embodiment, the cam is configured to lock therotating assembly in a first rotational position when the drive pin isin a first pin position.

According to another embodiment, the cam is configured to unlock therotating assembly when the drive pin moves from the first pin positionto the second pin position.

According to another embodiment, the first rotational position isapproximately 15 degrees from the second rotational position.

According to another embodiment, the first rotational position of thesaddle receiver is configured to position the saddle substantially levelto the ground.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismhas a saddle angle range of adjustment greater than 10 degrees.

According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment assembly isconfigured to rotate the saddle as saddle height is adjusted.

According to another embodiment, the body comprises a central borehaving a central axis substantially perpendicular to the second supportof the adjustable height saddle post.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddleadjustment assembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprises: anadjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle postcomprising a first support and a second support, the second supportconfigured to slidably move relative to the first support between atleast a raised position and a lowered position, the first supportconfigured to attach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angle adjustmentmechanism coupled to the second support, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism comprising a rotatably coupled saddle support configured tocouple to a bicycle saddle; wherein the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism is configured to enable rotation of the saddle supportrelative to the second support as a result of the first support movingrelative to the second support.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism furthercomprises an actuation surface positioned to contact a portion of thesaddle post when the first and second supports are in a predeterminedrelative position, wherein movement of the actuation surface caused bythe first support moving relative to the second support enables therotation of the saddle support. In some embodiments, the predeterminedrelative position is at or near the lowered position. In someembodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured toenable rotation of the saddle support relative to the second support ina first direction when the second support is at or near the loweredposition and in a second direction opposite the first direction when thesecond support is not at or near the lowered position. In someembodiments, rotation of the saddle support in the second direction iscaused by a force generated by the saddle angle adjustment mechanism,and wherein rotation of the saddle support in the first direction iscause by an external force applied to the saddle support. In someembodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprisesfirst and second stop surfaces, the first stop surface configured tolimit an amount of rotation of the saddle support in the firstdirection, the second stop surface is configured to limit an amount ofrotation of the saddle support in the second direction. In someembodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprises adamping mechanism that damps the rotation of the saddle support. In someembodiments, the saddle post further comprises a locking mechanismconfigured to lock the second support in position relative to the firstsupport in the raised position, the lowered position, and a plurality ofpositions therebetween. In some embodiments, the locking mechanismcomprises a collet positioned at least partially within an interiorcavity of the second support. In some embodiments, said saddle supportis configured to rotate between a predetermined first rotationalposition and a predetermined second rotational position. In someembodiments, said saddle angle adjustment mechanism rotates said saddlesupport relative the second support as the second support moves relativethe first support to the lowered position. In some embodiments, thebicycle assembly further comprises a controller, the actuation of whichpermits the height of the adjustable height saddle post to beselectively adjusted while the bicycle is in motion. In someembodiments, said saddle adjustment assembly further comprises a pistonand wherein force exerted by the piston on the saddle support causes thesaddle support to rotate relative to the second support. In someembodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises a bicycle frame.

According to some embodiments, a saddle angle adjustment mechanism foruse with an adjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddlepost including a first support and a second support, the second supportconfigured to slidably move relative to the first support between araised position and a lowered position, the first support adapted toattach to a bicycle frame, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismcomprises: an actuating mechanism comprising a support engaging portion,the support engaging portion adapted to be affixed to the second supportof the adjustable height saddle post; and a saddle support assemblyadapted to couple to a bicycle saddle, the saddle support assemblyrotatably coupled to the actuating mechanism; wherein the actuatingmechanism is configured to enable rotation of the saddle supportassembly in only a first direction relative to the second support whenthe second support is in the raised position, and wherein the actuatingmechanism is configured to enable rotation of the saddle supportassembly in only a second direction opposite the first direction whenthe second support is in the lowered position.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism furthercomprises a first stop surface that sets a maximum rotation of thesaddle support in the first direction, the saddle support being in afirst rotational position at the maximum rotation in the firstdirection, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to retain thesaddle support in the first rotational position when the saddle supportis in the first rotational position and the second support is in theraised position. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism further comprises a second stop surface that sets a maximumrotation of the saddle support in the second direction, the saddlesupport being in a second rotational position at the maximum rotation inthe second direction, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured toretain the saddle support in the second rotational position when thesaddle support is in the second rotational position and the secondsupport is in the lowered position. In some embodiments, the actuatingmechanism further comprises: a first body comprising a first cavity anda second cavity; and a second body slidably coupled to the first bodyand at least partially surrounding the first body, wherein, when thesecond body is in a first position relative to the first body, fluid inthe first cavity is able to flow to the second cavity, enabling a pistoncoupled to the saddle support to move in a direction that rotates thesaddle support in the first direction, and wherein, when the second bodyis in a second position relative to the first body, fluid in the secondcavity is able to flow to the first cavity, enabling the piston to movein a direction that rotates the saddle support in the second direction.In some embodiments, when the second body is in the first positionrelative to the first body, a first fluid flow path is open, enablingthe fluid in the first cavity to flow to the second cavity, and when thesecond body is in the second position relative to the first body, asecond fluid flow path is open, enabling the fluid in the second cavityto flow to the first cavity. In some embodiments, the second bodycomprises an actuation surface configured to contact a mating surface tocause the second body to translate relative to the first body. In someembodiments, the mating surface is part of the adjustable height saddlepost. In some embodiments, the mating surface is part of a collet usedto adjust the height of the adjustable height saddle post. In someembodiments, the mating surface is part of a bicycle frame. In someembodiments, the actuating mechanism further comprises a damper to dampthe rotation of the saddle support. In some embodiments, the actuatingmechanism further comprises a stored energy device to rotate the saddlesupport in the first direction. In some embodiments, the stored energydevice comprises at least one of the following: a mechanical spring, anair spring, a resilient member.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddleadjustment assembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprising: anadjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle postcomprising first and second slidably coupled supports, the first supportconfigured to attach to a bicycle frame; a saddle post locking mechanismthat selectively restricts sliding of the second support relative to thefirst support; and a saddle angle adjustment mechanism configured tocouple to a bicycle saddle (e.g., by clamping to one or more saddlerails) to enable rotation of the bicycle saddle between a firstpredetermined position and a second predetermined position, the saddleangle adjustment mechanism rotatably coupled to the second support,wherein, when the saddle post locking mechanism is in an unlockedconfiguration, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism enables rotation ofthe bicycle saddle between the first and second predetermined positions,and wherein, when the saddle post locking mechanism is in a lockedconfiguration, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism maintains thebicycle saddle in one of the first and second predetermined positions.

In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises: a thirdsupport slidably coupled to the second support, wherein sliding of thethird support relative to the second support rotates the saddle angleadjustment mechanism. In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly furthercomprises: first opposing stop surfaces that limit an extent of slidingof the third support relative to the second support in an extendeddirection; second opposing stop surfaces that limit an extent of slidingof the third support relative to the second support in a retracteddirection; third opposing stop surfaces that limit an extent of slidingof one of the second and third supports relative to the first support inthe extended direction; and fourth opposing stop surfaces that limit anextent of sliding of the one of the second and third supports relativeto the first support in the retracted direction. In some embodiments,the bicycle assembly further comprises: a linear actuator that slidesthe second support relative to the first support in at least onedirection, wherein the linear actuator comprises at least one of: apneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, an electric actuator, amechanical actuator, a lead screw, and a motor. In some embodiments, thesaddle post locking mechanism comprises at least one of: a radiallyexpandable collet, a brake, a non-backdrivable lead screw, and a motor.In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises the bicycleframe.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddleadjustment assembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprising: anadjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle postcomprising a first support and a second support, the second supportconfigured to be slidably moveable relative to the first support betweenat least a raised position and a lowered position, the first supportconfigured to attach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angle adjustmentmechanism rotatably coupled to the second support, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism configured to couple to a bicycle saddle (e.g., byclamping to one or more saddle rails); a lead nut coupled to one of thefirst and second supports; and a lead screw rotatably coupled to theother of the first and second supports, wherein rotational motion of thelead screw about a longitudinal axis of the lead screw causes the saddleangle adjustment mechanism to rotate with respect to the second support,wherein the lead screw engages the lead nut such that sliding of thesecond support relative to the first support causes the lead nut tobackdrive the lead screw.

In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises a worm gearmechanism that converts rotational motion of the lead screw about thelongitudinal axis into rotational motion of the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism about the second axis. In some embodiments, rotational motionof the lead nut with respect to the first support about the longitudinalaxis is substantially fixed, and wherein sliding motion of the lead nutwith respect to the first support in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis is restricted to a predefined range, enabling aportion of a range of sliding motion between the second support andfirst support to not cause the leadscrew to backdrive. In someembodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises a saddle postlocking mechanism that selectively restricts sliding of the secondsupport relative to the first support. In some embodiments, the bicycleassembly further comprises the bicycle frame.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle saddle angle adjustmentassembly comprises: a housing one of (1) coupled to and (2) integratedinto a bicycle saddle post; a saddle support configured to couple to abicycle saddle (e.g., by clamping to one or more saddle rails), thesaddle support rotatably coupled to the housing such that rotation ofthe saddle support adjusts an angle of the bicycle saddle with respectto the saddle post; and a motor comprising an output member, the outputmember coupled to the saddle support such that rotational motion of theoutput member is converted into rotational motion of the saddle supportto adjust the angle of the bicycle saddle with respect to the saddlepost.

In some embodiments, the output member is coupled to the saddle supportthrough a power transmission mechanism that produces a mechanicaladvantage. In some embodiments, the power transmission mechanismcomprises a worm drive comprising a worm driven by the motor outputmember and a gear that rotates the saddle support meshed with the worm.In some embodiments, the power transmission mechanism comprises a wormdriven by the motor output member and a helical rack meshed with theworm, the saddle support rotatably coupled to the helical rack, whereinlinear motion of the helical rack caused by rotation of the worm causesrotation of the saddle support. In some embodiments, the powertransmission mechanism comprises a first bevel gear driven by the motoroutput member and a second bevel gear that rotates the saddle supportmeshed with the first bevel gear. In some embodiments, the bicyclesaddle angle adjustment assembly further comprises a locking mechanismthat selectively restricts rotational motion of the saddle support withrespect to the housing. In some embodiments, the bicycle saddle angleadjustment assembly further comprises at least one switch electricallyconnected to the motor, wherein operation of the at least one switchcontrols powered rotation of the output member of the motor. In someembodiments, the at least one switch comprises at least one of: arider-operatable switch coupled to a bicycle handlebar, a switch coupledto the bicycle saddle post and configured to activate when the saddlepost is in a predetermined configuration, and a switch configured toactivate when a predetermined amount of force is applied to or removedfrom the bicycle saddle. In some embodiments, the bicycle saddle angleadjustment assembly further comprises the saddle post. In someembodiments, the bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly furthercomprises a bicycle frame.

According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises anadjustable saddle system, the adjustable saddle system comprising: asaddle angle adjustment mechanism configured to be coupled to a saddlepost and a bicycle saddle (e.g., by clamping to one or more saddlerails) and configured to rotate the bicycle saddle with respect to thesaddle post, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprising: a saddleangle sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the bicyclesaddle; and a motor configured to cause powered rotation of the saddlewith respect to the saddle post; and a saddle angle controller thatcontrols operation of the motor to cause the powered rotation of thesaddle based at least partially on a signal received from the saddleangle sensor.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle sensor comprises an electronicsensor that generates an output proportional to a current angle of thesaddle. In some embodiments, the saddle angle sensor comprises a limitswitch that detects when the saddle is at a predetermined angle. In someembodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises a locking mechanismcontrolled by the saddle angle controller, wherein the locking mechanismselectively restricts rotational motion of the saddle with respect tothe saddle post. In some embodiments, the saddle angle controllerenables on-demand rotation of the saddle in response to activation of arider-operatable switch, the on-demand rotation enabled only within apredefined range of saddle angle adjustment based on data received bythe saddle angle controller from the saddle angle sensor. In someembodiments, the saddle post is extendable to an extended position andretractable to a retracted position, and the bicycle assembly furthercomprises: a saddle post position sensor configured to detect a positionof the saddle post, wherein, in response to the saddle post positionsensor indicating to the saddle angle controller that the saddle post isin a predetermined position, the saddle angle controller activates themotor to cause rotation of the saddle. In some embodiments, the saddlepost position sensor comprises an electronic sensor that generates anoutput proportional to a current position of the saddle post. In someembodiments, the saddle post position sensor comprises a limit switchthat detects when the saddle post is at a predetermined position. Insome embodiments, the bicycle assembly further comprises: a riderpresence sensor configured to detect a force of a rider applied to thebicycle saddle, wherein the saddle angle controller is configured toactivate the motor to cause rotation of the saddle based at least inpart on an indication by the rider presence sensor that the bicyclesaddle is not presently supporting the rider. In some embodiments, thebicycle assembly further comprises: a frame orientation sensorconfigured to detect an angle of a frame of the bicycle assembly withrespect to a riding environment, wherein the saddle angle controller isconfigured to activate the motor to cause rotation of the saddle basedat least in part on an indication by the frame orientation sensor thatthe frame is currently at or exceeding a predetermined angle withrespect to the riding environment. In some embodiments, the bicycleassembly further comprises the saddle post. In some embodiments, thebicycle assembly further comprises a bicycle frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned aspects, as well as other features, aspects, andadvantages of the present technology will now be described in connectionwith various embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.The illustrated embodiments, however, are merely examples and are notintended to be limiting. Like reference numbers and designations in thevarious drawings indicate like elements.

FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a bicycle including one embodiment ofa saddle angle adjustment assembly in a raised position and the saddleat a first saddle angle.

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of a bicycle including one embodiment ofa saddle angle adjustment assembly in a lowered position and the saddleat a second saddle angle.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a saddle coupled to oneembodiment of a saddle angle adjustment assembly.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross section view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 5A-5H illustrates cross section views of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 2 in various stages of motion.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism.

FIG. 7 illustrates an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustmentmechanism.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism.

FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism.

FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism.

FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of anadjustable saddle post assembly.

FIG. 13 illustrates a detailed cross-sectional view of the adjustablesaddle post of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the inner support ofthe adjustable saddle post assembly of FIGS. 12-13.

FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of a collet configured for usein an adjustable saddle post assembly as disclosed herein according toone embodiment.

FIGS. 15B and 15C illustrate different views of an expansion portioncomprising a plurality of balls according to one embodiment.

FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of an adjustable assemblyaccording to another embodiment.

FIGS. 16B and 16C illustrate different perspective views of theadjustable assembly of FIG. 16A with a portion of the assembly hidden orremoved for clarity.

FIG. 16D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the adjustable assemblyof FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an adjustable assemblyaccording to another embodiment.

FIG. 17B-17D illustrate different cross-sectional views of theadjustable assembly of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A illustrates a side view of a bicycle including anotherembodiment of a saddle angle adjustment assembly in a raised positionand the saddle at a first saddle angle.

FIG. 18B illustrates a side view of the bicycle of FIG. 18A with saddleangle adjustment assembly in a lowered position and the saddle at asecond saddle angle.

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of a saddle coupled to the saddleangle adjustment assembly of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of the saddle angle adjustment assemblyof FIG. 18A.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 18A.

FIGS. 24-31 illustrate cross-sectional views of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 18A in various stages of actuation.

FIG. 32 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a bicycle comprisinga saddle angle adjustment assembly and an electronic controller.

FIG. 33 depicts an embodiment of a system diagram of an electroniccontrol system for controlling an adjustable saddle system.

FIGS. 34A-34E depict embodiments of process flow diagrams illustratingexample processes for electronically controlled saddle rotation.

FIG. 35A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment assembly in an extended configuration.

FIG. 35B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the saddle angle assemblyof FIG. 35A.

FIG. 35C illustrates another cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 35A.

FIG. 35D illustrates a side view of the saddle angle adjustment assemblyof FIG. 35A in a retracted configuration.

FIG. 35E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 35D.

FIG. 35F illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of asaddle angle adjustment assembly.

FIG. 35G illustrates another cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 35F.

FIG. 36A illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment assembly.

FIG. 36B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 36C illustrates a perspective view of a lead nut of the saddleangle adjustment assembly of FIG. 36A.

FIG. 37 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of asaddle angle adjustment assembly.

FIG. 38 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of asaddle angle adjustment assembly.

FIG. 39A illustrates a side cross sectional view of another embodimentof a saddle angle adjustment assembly.

FIG. 39B illustrates a top cross-sectional view of the saddle angleadjustment assembly of FIG. 39A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. Theillustrative embodiments described in the detailed description,drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments maybe utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from thespirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readilyunderstood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generallydescribed herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged,substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form partof this disclosure. For example, a system or device may be implementedor a method may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forthherein. In addition, such a system or device may be implemented or sucha method may be practiced using other structure, functionality, orstructure and functionality in addition to or other than one or more ofthe aspects set forth herein. Alterations and further modifications ofthe inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applicationsof the principles of the inventions as illustrated herein, which wouldoccur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of thisdisclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.

Descriptions of unnecessary parts or elements may be omitted for clarityand conciseness, and like reference numerals refer to like elementsthroughout. In the drawings, the size and thickness of layers andregions may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience.

Features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent fromthe following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings. It will be understood these drawings depictonly certain embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and,therefore, are not to be considered limiting of its scope; thedisclosure will be described with additional specificity and detailthrough use of the accompanying drawings. An apparatus, system or methodaccording to some of the described embodiments can have several aspects,no single one of which necessarily is solely responsible for thedesirable attributes of the apparatus, system or method. Afterconsidering this discussion, and particularly after reading the sectionentitled “Detailed Description” one will understand how illustratedfeatures serve to explain certain principles of the present disclosure.

This application is directed to embodiments of saddle angle adjustmentassemblies, with one embodiment being a saddle angle adjustment assembly200 for a bicycle 100 as shown in FIG. 1A. The saddle angle adjustmentassembly 200 can include an adjustable height saddle post 300 and asaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2012/0228906, which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety and made a part of the present application, and U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0324327, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety and made part of theapplication, each describe one or more embodiments of an adjustableheight saddle post. The adjustable height saddle post 300 can bedesirably configured to enable the rider to selectively adjust theheight of the saddle 105. The adjustable height saddle post 300 can beselectively adjusted by the rider via a controller 301, desirablymounted on the handlebars, while the rider is riding the bicycle. Thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can be desirably configured tocooperate with the adjustable height saddle post 300 to adjust thesaddle angle α (See FIG. 2) when the rider selectively raises or lowersthe saddle 105. In some embodiments, including the embodimentsillustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400can be affixed to the top of the adjustable height saddle post 300 andbe configured to automatically angle the saddle rearwards when the seatis lowered via the adjustable height saddle post 300.

Saddle angle adjustment mechanisms as disclosed herein have a variety ofbenefits. For example, when a rider is riding a bicycle, there may bedifferent situations where the rider wishes his or her saddle to be at adifferent height. For example, when riding uphill, the rider may wishthe saddle to be in a higher position than when riding downhill.Further, in some situations, such as when riding downhill, a rider maywish the saddle to be down and out of the way, because the rider may noteven desire to use the saddle. However, if a saddle is merely dropped,such as by lowering an adjustable height saddle post, several things canoccur. For example, when the rider goes to reengage the saddle, therider's clothing, such as shorts, may catch on a back edge of thesaddle. Further, the rider's body may strike the back edge of thesaddle, potentially harming sensitive body parts.

The saddle angle adjustment mechanisms disclosed herein providesolutions to many of these problems. For example, in some embodiments, asaddle angle adjustment mechanism can be configured to rotate a saddleto a backward or lowered position when the saddle post is at a loweredposition. For example, when a rider is riding downhill, the rider canoperate a lever and use his or her body weight to lower the saddle postand tilt the seat backward. The rider can then lean backward off of thesaddle (or otherwise disengage from the saddle) to ride the bicycledownhill without using the saddle. The saddle post and saddle willremain in their lowered and tilted back positions, respectively. Whenthe rider wishes to reengage the saddle, such as when the downhill gradestops and the bike is again on level surface, the rider or rider cangently and comfortably reengage the saddle. With the saddle being tippedbackward, there is a lower chance that the back edge of the saddle willcatch on the rider's clothing. Further, a backward tilted saddlepresents a larger surface area of contact for the rider in re-engagingthe saddle, lessening a chance of injuring a rider by enabling the riderto gently reengage the saddle. This limits the risk that the back edgeof the saddle roughly contacts a sensitive area of the rider's body.

Some embodiments of adjustable angle saddle mechanisms as disclosedherein further provide damping in the saddle angle adjustment. This canbe advantageous for various reasons, such as to reduce injury andincrease comfort. For example, when a rider reengages the saddle, therider will likely wish for the saddle to tilt back forward and/orupward, and the saddle post to move upward into a raised position,sometimes known as the power position. However, without damping, thesaddle may snap forward and or upward and strike the rider, potentiallyinjuring the rider. By including damping in the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism, the saddle can return to the upper, forward, and/or powerposition in a comfortable and controlled manner.

In various embodiments, as will be appreciated by one of skill in theart from the forgoing disclosure, a saddle angle adjustment mechanismcan be configured to rotate a saddle about an axis of rotation locatedat various locations. For example, an axis of rotation may be transverseor perpendicular to and centered on the saddle post and/or a centralaxis of the saddle post. In another embodiment, the axis of rotation maybe perpendicular to and positioned behind the saddle post and/or centralaxis of the saddle post. In another embodiment, the axis of rotation maybe perpendicular to and positioned in front of the saddle post and/orcentral axis of the saddle post. In various embodiments, the axis ofrotation may be positioned in line with, in front of, or behind amidpoint of the saddle. In some embodiments, an axis of rotation beinglocated in front of the saddle post and/or forward of a midpoint of thesaddle may be advantageous. For example, such a configuration mayprovide a longer lever (e.g., bigger mechanical advantage) when a ridertilts the saddle backward by moving his or her weight to a rear of thesaddle.

FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a bicycle 100 including oneembodiment of a saddle angle adjustment assembly 200 in a raisedposition and the saddle 105 at a first saddle angle. FIG. 1B illustratesa side view of a bicycle 100 including one embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment assembly 200 in a lowered position and the saddle 105 at asecond saddle angle. The adjustable height saddle post 300 can include afirst support, such as, for example a lower support 310 and a secondsupport, such as, for example, an upper support 320. The lower support310 can be adapted to attach to a bicycle frame 110 of a bicycle 100. Insome embodiments, the lower support 310 can slide within a seat tube 115of a bicycle frame 110 and be clamped in place such that the lowersupport 310 does not move relative to the seat tube 115 of the bicycleframe 110 while the bicycle 100 is ridden. The upper support 320 can beconfigured to slidably move relative to the lower support 310 between araised position, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, and a lowered position, asillustrated in FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the upper support 320 canbe configured to slide within at least a portion of the lower support310.

The adjustable height saddle post 300 can include an adjustable range.The “lowered position” of the upper support 320 comprises the positionwithin the adjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 atwhich the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 is closest to the lowersupport 310. The “raised position” of the upper support 320 comprisesall height positions of the upper support 320 above the lowered positionwithin the adjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300.

In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustable heightsaddle post 300 can be greater than ¼″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan ½″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 1″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 2″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 3″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 4″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 5″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 6″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 7″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 8″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 9″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 10″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 11″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 12″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 can be greater than 1″ and less than 12″. In someembodiments, the adjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post300 can be greater than 2″ and less than 10″. In some embodiments, theadjustable range of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greaterthan 3″ and less than 8″. In some embodiments, the adjustable range ofthe adjustable height saddle post 300 can be greater than 4″ and lessthan 6″.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height saddle post 300 can include aspring configured to urge the upper support 320 towards a raisedposition relative to the first support 310. In some embodiments, thespring can be an air spring. In some embodiments, the adjustable heightsaddle post 300 can include a locking mechanism adapted to limitmovement between the lower support 310 and upper support 320 when thelocking mechanism is in a locked position and to allow relative movementbetween the lower support 310 and upper support 320 when the lockingmechanism is in an unlocked position. In some embodiments, the lockingmechanism can be located at the bottom of the adjustable height saddlepost 300. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism can be located atthe bottom of the upper support 320. In some embodiments, the lockingmechanism can include a biasing member configured to default the lockingmechanism to a locked position. When the locking mechanism is unlockedthe spring can desirably urge the upper support 320 towards a raisedposition. The rider can overcome the force provided by the spring byapplying a downward force on the saddle 105 with the weight of theirbody and urge the lower support 310 towards the lowered position whenthe rider selectively unlock the locking mechanism. Once the riderreleases the controller 301, the locking mechanism can be configured tomove to a locked position and limit movement between the lower support310 and upper support 320.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism can include a controller 301such that the rider can selectively unlock the locking mechanism. Insome embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured such that therider can unlock the locking mechanism while the rider is riding thebicycle 100. The controller 301 can include a lever or button which therider can push or rotate to unlock the locking mechanism. The controller301 can be located in a convenient location for the rider, which mayinclude for example, the handlebars as illustrated in FIG. 1A. In someembodiments, the controller 301 can be connected to the lockingmechanism with a cable 321. The cable 321 can desirably be routedthrough the bicycle frame 110 from the controller 321 and engage thelocking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is locatedat the bottom of the adjustable height seat post 300 located within thebicycle frame 110. In other embodiments, the cable 321 can be routedoutside the frame.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment assembly 200 can beconfigured to manipulate the saddle angle α (See FIG. 2) of the saddle105. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 canbe affixed to the upper support 320 such that the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400 moves up and down with the upper support 320.The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can be configured tomanipulate the saddle angle of the saddle 105 about a saddle rotationaxis. The saddle rotation axis can be substantially parallel to an axisdefined by the rear dropout of the bicycle frame, which corresponds tothe rear axle 120 of the rear wheel assembly 125 of the bicycle 100 asillustrated in FIG. 1A. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 400 can be configured to rotate the saddle 105 between a firstsaddle angle, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, and a second saddle angle, asillustrated in FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the saddle 105 can bearranged substantially parallel to the ground plane when the saddle 105is positioned at a first saddle angle. In some embodiments, the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400 can rotate the saddle 105 rearwards,counterclockwise when viewed from the perspective of FIGS. 1A and 1B,from the first saddle angle to the second saddle angle. In someembodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can rotate thesaddle 105 forwards, clockwise when viewed from the perspective of FIGS.1A and 1B, from the second saddle angle to the first saddle angle.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 isconfigured to rotate the saddle 105 rearwards when the adjustable heightsaddle post 300 is adjusted from a raised position to a loweredposition. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can be configured torotate the saddle 105 forwards when the adjustable height saddle post300 is adjusted from a lowered position to a raised position. The saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400 can be configured to lock the saddle 105at a first saddle angle when the adjustable height saddle post 300 is ina raised position. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 400 can be configured to lock the saddle 105 at a secondsaddle angle when the adjustable height saddle post 300 is in a loweredposition. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400can be configured to unlock the saddle when the adjustable height saddlepost 300 is adjusted from a lowered position to a raised position,allowing the saddle 105 to rotate from a second saddle angle to a firstsaddle angle.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a saddle 105 coupled to oneembodiment of a saddle angle adjustment assembly 200. In someembodiments, the lower support 310 can include a tube portion 311 and asealing portion 312. In some embodiments, the adjustable height saddlepost 300 can include an impact surface 314. In some embodiments, thelower support 310 can include an impact surface 314. In someembodiments, the sealing portion 312 of the lower support 310 caninclude an impact surface 314. In some embodiments, the saddle angleadjustment assembly 200 can include an optional actuating unit 313configured to be releasably coupled to the lower support 310. In someembodiments, the actuating unit 313 can be configured to couple to thesealing portion 312 of the lower support 310. In some embodiments, theactuating unit 313 can include an impact surface 314. The impact surface314 can be configured to contact a portion of the a main unit of thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400, which may include for example, adrive pin 800, when the adjustable height saddle post 300 is lowered toa lowered position.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can be affixed to a top portion ofthe upper support 320 of the adjustable height saddle post 300. In someembodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include asaddle receiver 510 configured to couple to the saddle 105. Some bicyclesaddles 100 incorporate saddle rails 107 as part of a mounting systembetween the saddle 105 and a main body of a conventional saddle post. Insome embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can incorporate at least onerail receiving feature such as a rail receiver 515, as illustrated inFIG. 3, configured to accept a saddle rail 107 of the saddle 105. Insome embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can include a rail retainingmember 600, such as a rail cap, adapted to be positioned adjacent therail 107 and opposite the saddle receiver 510 to lock the rail 107 ofthe saddle 105 to the saddle receiver 510.

The rail receiver 515 of the saddle receiver 510, as illustrated in FIG.3, defines a partially cylindrical surface which defines a railreceiving axis which is collinear with the central axis of the portionof the rail 107 engaging the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400, asillustrated in FIG. 2. The saddle angle “α” is defined by the anglebetween the rail receiving axis and the central axis of the uppersupport 320 of the adjustable height seat post.

In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can havea saddle angle α range of adjustment between the first saddle angle andthe second saddle angle. In some embodiments, the saddle angle α rangeof adjustment can be greater than 5 degrees. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle α range of adjustment can be greater than 10 degrees. Insome embodiments, the saddle angle α range of adjustment can be greaterthan 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the saddle angle α range ofadjustment can be greater than 20 degrees. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle α range of adjustment can be greater than 30 degrees. Insome embodiments, the saddle angle α range of adjustment can be greaterthan 35 degrees. In some embodiments, the saddle angle α range ofadjustment can be greater than 40 degrees. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle α range of adjustment can be greater than 45 degrees. Insome embodiments, the saddle angle α range of adjustment can be between5 and 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the saddle angle α range ofadjustment can be between 5 and 35 degrees. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle α range of adjustment can be between 10 and 25 degrees. Insome embodiments, the saddle angle α range of adjustment can be between15 and 20 degrees.

In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post300 of at least ½″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α ofat least 5 degrees. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 of at least ½″ can result in an adjustment of thesaddle angle α of at least 10 degrees. In some embodiments, anadjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300 of at least ½″ canresult in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15 degrees. Insome embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300of at least ½″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of atleast 20 degrees.

In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post300 of at least 1″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α ofat least 5 degrees. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 of at least 1″ can result in an adjustment of thesaddle angle α of at least 10 degrees. In some embodiments, anadjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300 of at least 1″ canresult in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15 degrees. Insome embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300of at least 1″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of atleast 20 degrees.

In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post300 of at least 2″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α ofat least 5 degrees. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 of at least 2″ can result in an adjustment of thesaddle angle α of at least 10 degrees. In some embodiments, anadjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300 of at least 2″ canresult in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15 degrees. Insome embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300of at least 2″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of atleast 20 degrees.

In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post300 of at least 3″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α ofat least 5 degrees. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustableheight saddle post 300 of at least 3″ can result in an adjustment of thesaddle angle α of at least 10 degrees. In some embodiments, anadjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300 of at least 3″ canresult in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15 degrees. Insome embodiments, an adjustment of the adjustable height saddle post 300of at least 3″ can result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of atleast 20 degrees.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 200 of FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the rail receiver 515 ofthe saddle receiver 510 can include a curved surface adapted to engagethe rail 107 of the saddle. In some embodiments, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400 can include a rail retaining fastenerconfigured to couple the rail retaining members 600 to the saddleadjustment assembly. In some embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 caninclude an aperture configured such that a rail retaining fastener 610can pass through the saddle receiver 510 and engage the oppositeretaining member, coupling each rail retaining member 600 to the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400 and coupling the saddle 105 to the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400. The rail retaining fastener 610 caninclude a head portion and a shank portion. The head portion can includea surface adapted to engage a portion of the rail retaining member 600and force the rail retaining member 600 against the rotating assembly500 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The shank portion caninclude external threads configured to engage a rail retaining member600 or a nut which includes internal threads. In some embodiments, therail retaining member 600 can include a threaded bore configured toengage one or more rail retaining fasteners 610. In some embodiments,the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a nut including asurface adapted to engage a portion of a rail retaining member 600 andforce the rail retaining member 600 against the rotating assembly 500 ofthe saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, thesaddle receiver 510 can include a threaded bore configured to engage oneor more rail retaining member fasteners 610. In some embodiments, thesaddle receiver 510 can include other means for coupling to the saddle105 which may include for example, a snap fit, a clamp assembly, a quickrelease clamp, a cam lock assembly, etc.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a rotating assembly500. The rotating assembly 500 can include the saddle receiver 510. Insome embodiments the rotating assembly 500 can include an outer member520. In some embodiments, the outer member 520 can be cylindrical inshape having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments,the outer member 520 is affixed to the saddle receiver 510 such that thesaddle receiver 510 and outer member 520 rotate together. In someembodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can be formed in one integralpiece. In some embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can comprise aplurality of pieces. In some embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 cancomprise a left portion and a right portion, the left portion configuredto engage the left saddle rail of the saddle 105 and the right portionconfigured to engage the right saddle rail 107 of the saddle 105. Insome embodiments, the left portion and right portion can be affixed toone another. In some embodiments, the left portion and right portion caneach be affixed to the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the leftportion and right portion can be formed integrally. In otherembodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can be affixed to the outer member520. In some embodiments, the left portion and right portion of thesaddle receiver 510 can include a tapered portion configured to engagetapered portions of the inner surface of the outer member 520. In someembodiments, the left portion and right portion of the saddle receiver510 can be free to rotate relative to the rest of the rotating assemblyuntil the rail retaining fastener 610 is tightened down, pulling theleft portion toward the right portion and causing the tapered portion ofthe left portion and right portion to engage the tapered portions of theinner surface of the outer member 520. The friction between the taperedportions can prevent the saddle receiver 510 from rotating relative tothe rest of the rotating assembly. In some embodiments, the taperedportions can include protrusions or recesses to prevent rotation betweenthe saddle receiver 510 and the outer member 520, which may include forexample, ridges, ribs, slots, splines, etc. In other embodiments, thesaddle receiver 510 can be affixed to the outer member 520 via afriction fit. In other embodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can beaffixed to the outer member 520 via an interference fit. In otherembodiments, the saddle receiver 510 can be affixed to the outer member520 via more permanent means which may include, for example, bonding,adhesives, welding, etc. In other embodiments, the saddle receiver 510and outer member 520 are formed integrally.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a body 700. The body700 can include a central bore 710 formed through the body 700. Thecentral bore 710 has a “central axis” substantially perpendicular to theupper support 320 of the adjustable height saddle post 300. The rotatingassembly 500 can share the saddle rotation axis with the saddle 105. Thesaddle rotation axis can be collinear with the central axis of thecentral bore 710. The central bore 710 can be configured to rotatablyreceive the rotating assembly 500. The rotating assembly 500 can beconfigured to rotate within the central bore 710 of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400. In some embodiments, at least a portion of therotating assembly 500 can comprise a different material than the body700 to minimize friction and galling between the rotating assembly 500and the body 700. In some embodiments, at least one bearing or bushing530 can be used between the rotating assembly 500 and the inside surfaceof the central bore 710 of the body 700. In some embodiments, therotating assembly 500 can be retained axially within the central bore710 via one or more axial retaining members, which may include forexample, circlips, fasteners, internally threaded nuts, externallythreaded nuts, etc. In some embodiments, the rotating assembly 500 caninclude one or more thrust washers.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 is configured to rotate the saddlereceiver 510 relative to the body 700. In some embodiments, the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400 is configured to rotate the rotatingassembly 500 between a first rotational position and a second rotationalposition. In some embodiments, the first rotational position of therotating assembly 500 corresponds to the first saddle angle of thesaddle 105 discussed herein, and illustrated in FIG. 1A. In someembodiments, the second rotational position of the rotating assembly 500corresponds to the second saddle angle of the saddle 105 discussedherein, and illustrated in FIG. 1B.

In other embodiments, not illustrated in the figures, the saddlereceiver 510 can include an offset angular adjustment feature allowingthe saddle receiver 510, and thus the saddle angle α, to be locked atdifferent angles with respect to the rest of the rotating assembly 500,such that the saddle receiver 510 and saddle 105 still rotate with therotating assembly 500, but providing for the adjustment of the firstsaddle angle corresponding to the first rotational position of therotating assembly 500 and the second saddle angle corresponding to thesecond rotational position of the rotating assembly 500. In otherembodiments, the offset angular adjustment feature can adjust the anglebetween the drive yoke 530 and the rest of the rotating assembly 500.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a drive pin 800. Thedrive pin 800 can move relative to the body 700 of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400. In some embodiments, the drive pin 800 cantranslate linearly relative to the body 700 of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the drive pin 800 canrotate around a drive pin axis (not illustrated). In some embodiments,the impact surface 314 can be configured to contact the drive pin 800 ofthe saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 when the adjustable heightsaddle post 300 is lowered to a lowered position. In some embodiments,the drive pin can include a drive button 830 configured to contact theimpact surface 314. In some embodiments, the impact surface 314 canforce the drive pin 800 to move upwards relative to the body 700 of thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The drive pin 800 moving upwardscan desirably unlock the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 from thefirst rotational position. The drive pin 800 moving upwards can causethe rotating assembly 500 to rotate from a first rotational position toa second rotational position. In some embodiments, the rotating assembly500 can include a drive yoke 530. In some embodiments, the drive yoke530 can be affixed to the saddle receiver 510. In some embodiments, thedrive yoke 530 can be affixed to the outer member 520. In someembodiments, the drive yoke 530 can rotate together with the outermember 520 and the saddle receiver 510. In some embodiments, the drivepin 800 can contact the drive yoke 530 when it moves upwards. In someembodiments, the drive pin 800 can force the drive yoke 530 and the restof the rotating assembly 500 including the saddle receiver 510 to rotaterelative to the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400when the drive pin 800 moves from a first position to a second position.In some embodiments, at least a portion of the drive pin 800 can be atleast partially surrounded by a drive seal 810. The drive seal 810 canbe configured to limit fluids, solids, or any other materials fromentering the interior of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. Insome embodiments, the drive seal 810 can be an accordion seal such thatthe height of the drive seal 810 can change depending on the movement ofthe drive pin 800 relative to the body 700 of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross section view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 200 of FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 400 can include a support engaging portion 720. The supportengaging portion 720 can be adapted to affix the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 400 to the upper support 320 of the adjustable height saddlepost 300. In some embodiments, the support engaging portion 720 can beconfigured to engage the inner surface of the upper support 320. In someembodiments, the support engaging portion 720 can include a shoulderadapted to abut the top portion of the upper support 320. Methods ofaffixing the support engaging portion 720 to the upper support 320 caninclude, for example, threading, bonding, adhesives, etc.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thesupport engaging portion 720 can be formed integrally with the body 700of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, thesupport engaging portion 720 can be affixed to the body 700 of thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The support engaging portion 720can be configured to form an air tight seal with the second member. Thesupport member and the adjustable height saddle post 300 can form apressure chamber 330. The pressure chamber 330 can form part of the airspring discussed herein. In some embodiments, the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400 can include a valve 750 in fluid communicationwith the pressure chamber 330 and configured to adjust the pressurewithin pressure chamber 330 and thus the force at which the adjustableheight saddle post 300 urges the upper support 320 upwards when thelocking mechanism of the adjustable height saddle post 300 is in anunlocked position.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thesealing portion 312 can be located at or near the upper end of the lowersupport 310. In some embodiments, the tube portion 311 (See FIGS. 2 and3) of the lower support 310 can be affixed within the tube recess 315 ofthe sealing portion 312. In some embodiments, the sealing portion 312can be advantageously configured to limit fluids, solids, or any othermaterials from entering the interior of the lower support 310. In someembodiments, the sealing portion 312 can prevent air or other fluidsfrom escaping internal portions of the adjustable height saddle post300, which may include for example, the pressure chamber 330. In someembodiments, the sealing portion 312 of the lower support 310 caninclude a circumferential seal 315 that generally abuts and contacts anouter surface of the upper support 320. The seal 315 can comprise one ormore elastomeric, thermoplastic, or other flexible, righted, orsemi-rigid materials.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a drive channel 730configured to slidably receive the drive pin 800. In some embodiments,the drive channel 730 can be formed in a drive sleeve 735 which isaffixed to the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. Inother embodiments, the drive channel 730 can be formed in the body 700of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The drive channel 730 canbe substantially parallel to upper support 320 of the adjustable heightsaddle post 300. The drive channel 730 and drive pin 800 can be adaptedsuch that the drive pin 800 can slide between a first pin position, asillustrated in FIG. 4, and a second pin position, as illustrated in FIG.5D. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a drive spring820 configured to force the drive pin 800 towards the first pinposition.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thedrive pin 800 is configured to contact a portion of the adjustableheight saddle post 300, which may include for example, the impactsurface 314, when the upper support 320 is in a lowered position. Insome embodiments, the relative motion between the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400 and the lower support 310 when the uppersupport 320 is lowered from a raised position to a lowered position cancause the impact surface 314 to force the drive pin 800 from a firstposition to a second position. In some embodiments, the drive pin 800 isconfigured to cooperate with the drive yoke 530 when the drive pin 800slides from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments,the drive pin 800 is configured to rotate the rotating assembly 500 froma first rotational position to a second rotational position when thedrive pin 800 slides from a first position to a second position. Thedrive seal 810 of FIG. 3 has been left out in FIG. 4 for clarity. Insome embodiments, the drive seal 810 can prevent external contaminantsfrom interfering with the motion of the drive pin 800 within the drivechannel 730.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thedrive pin 800 is configured to cooperate with the cam 900. In someembodiments, the drive pin 800 is configured to unlock the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400 when it slides from a first position to asecond position. In some embodiments, the drive pin 800 can include aramp 840 configured to cooperate with the cam 900. In some embodiments,the ramp 840 can be a recess formed in the drive pin 800. In otherembodiments, the ramp 840 could be a protrusion from the drive pin 800.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thedrive yoke 530 can be affixed to the outer member 520 of the rotatingassembly 500. In some embodiments, one or more fasteners 540 can passthrough the outer member 520 and engage the drive yoke 530, affixing thedrive yoke 530 to the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the outersurface of the outer member 520 can include a recess configured toaccept the drive yoke 530. In some embodiments, the rotating assembly500 can include a backing plate 550 configured to abut the insidesurface of the outer member 520 opposite the drive yoke 530. In someembodiments, one or more fasteners 540 can pass through the backingplate 550 and engage the drive yoke 530. In some embodiments, thebacking plate 550 can include a flat fastener engaging surface. In someembodiments, the drive yoke 530 can be configured to cooperate with acam 900 to lock the rotating assembly 500 in a first rotationalposition. In some embodiments, drive yoke 530 can be configured tocooperate with the drive pin 800 to rotate the rotating assembly 500from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. Insome embodiments, the drive yoke 530 can be configured to cooperate witha return assembly 1000 to rotate the rotating assembly 500 from a secondrotational position to a first rotational position. In some embodiments,the drive yoke 530 can include a first arm 531 and a second arm 532. Thefirst arm 531 and second arm 532 can each protrude outward from thesaddle rotation axis. The first arm 531 can be configured to cooperatewith a cam 900. The first arm 531 can be configured to lock the rotatingassembly 500 in a first rotational position. The second arm 532 can beconfigured to cooperate with the drive pin 800. The second arm 532 canbe configured to cooperate with a return member 1010. In someembodiments, the second arm 532 can include a recess configured toaccept a portion of the return member 1010. In other embodiments, thedrive yoke 530 can include a single arm. In other embodiments, the driveyoke 530 can include a plurality of arms. In other embodiments, thereturn assembly 1000, drive pin 800, and cam 900 can each be configuredto manipulate the drive yoke 530 by cooperating with the first arm 531,second arm 532, or another portion of the drive yoke 530.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a return assembly1000. In some embodiments, the return assembly 1000 can be configured torotate the rotating assembly 500 from the second rotational position tothe first rotational position. The return assembly 1000 can beconfigured to cooperate with the drive yoke 530 to rotate the rotatingassembly 500 from the second rotational position to the first rotationalposition. The return assembly can include a return member 1010 and areturn spring 1020. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 400 can include a return channel 740 configured to accept thereturn member 1010 of the return assembly 1000. In some embodiments, thereturn channel 740 can be formed in the body 700 of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400. The return member 1010 can be configured toslidably move within the return channel 740. The return spring 1020 canforce the return member 1010 against a portion of the drive yoke 530,urging the rotational assembly towards the first rotational position. Insome embodiments, the return member 1010 can cooperate with the secondarm 532 of the drive yoke 530 to rotate the rotating assembly 500. Insome embodiments, the return member 1010 can incorporate a return bumpstop 1030. In some embodiments, the return bump stop 1030 can beconfigured to limit rotation of the rotating assembly 500 past thesecond rotational position. In some embodiments, the return bump stop1030 can be at least partially deformable. The return bump stop 1030 canbe made of rubber. The return bump stop 1030 can have a significantlyhigher spring rate than the return spring 1020. In some embodiments, thereturn member 1010 can be configured to contact and deform the returnbump stop 1030 when the rotating assembly 500 is rotated from a firstposition to a second position. In some embodiments, the return member1010 can be configured to contact the drive yoke 530 at one end of thereturn member 1010 and the bump stop at the other end of the returnmember 1010 when the rotating assembly 500 has reached the secondrotational position. In some embodiments, the return assembly 1000 canbe adjustable via adjusting the preload on the return spring 1020. Insome embodiments, adjusting the preload on the return spring 1020 can beadjusted via a threaded adjustment member. In other embodiments, thereturn assembly 1000 can rotate. In some embodiments, the returnassembly 1000 can include a torsional spring.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a cam 900. The cam 900can include a pivot 930, such as a shaft, about which the cam 900 canrotate. The cam 900 can rotate between a locked position, as illustratedin FIG. 4, and an unlocked position, as illustrated in FIG. 5D. In someembodiments, the cam 900 is configured to lock the rotating assembly 500in a first rotational position. In other embodiments, the cam 900 can beconfigured to lock the rotating assembly 500 in a second rotationalposition. The cam 900 can include a first portion 910 and a secondportion 920. In some embodiments, the first portion 910 can include afirst roller. In some embodiments, the second portion 920 can include asecond roller. The cam 900 can include a cam spring 940 configured toforce the cam 900 towards the locked position.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the cam spring 940 can beadapted to rotate the cam 900 towards a locked position (in a clockwisedirection when viewed from the perspective of FIG. 4). The cam spring940 can be a torsional spring. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can beconfigured to cooperate with the drive yoke 530 to limit rotation of therotating assembly 500. In some embodiments, the first arm 531 of the cam900 can be configured to cooperate with the drive yoke 530. In someembodiments, the cam 900 can be configured to cooperate with the firstarm 531 of the drive yoke 530 to lock the rotating assembly 500 in afirst rotational position. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can lock therotating assembly 500 in a first rotational position when the adjustableheight saddle post 300 is in a raised position. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 can include a locking bump stop760. In some embodiments, the locking bump stop 760 can be configured tolimit rotation of the rotating assembly 500 past the first rotationalposition. In some embodiments, the locking bump stop 760 can be at leastpartially deformable. The locking bump stop 760 can be made of rubber.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thedrive yoke 530 can be configured to contact the locking bump stop 760when the rotating assembly 500 rotates from a second rotational positionto a first rotational position. In some embodiments, the drive yoke 530and cam 900 can be configured such that the cam 900 goes “over-center”as it locks the rotating assembly 500 in the first rotational position.In some embodiments, as the cam 900 is rotating from an unlockedposition to a locked position, the drive yoke 530 can compress thelocking bump stop 760. The drive yoke 530 can rotate past the firstrotational position when compressing the locking bump stop 760 as thecam 900 engages the first arm 531 of the drive yoke 530. As the cam 900rotates into a locked position, the “center” configuration can bedefined as the arrangement at which the drive yoke 530 has rotatedfurthest and the bump stop has been compressed the most. The cam 900 canthen rotate further into the locked position wherein the bump stopexpands and rotates the drive yoke 530 back to the first rotationalposition. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can be held in the lockedposition due to the “over-center” position of the cam 900 wherein thelocking bump stop 760 is forcing the first arm 531 to engage the firstportion 910 of the cam 900 and lock the cam 900 in place. In otherembodiments, the cam 900 can enter the locked position without therotating assembly 500 rotating past the first rotational position.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, thereturn member 1010 can incorporate a return bump stop 1030. In someembodiments, the return bump stop 1030 can be configured to limitrotation of the rotating assembly 500 past the second rotationalposition. In some embodiments, the return bump stop 1030 can be at leastpartially deformable. The return bump stop 1030 can be made of rubber.The return bump stop 1030 can have a significantly higher spring ratethan the return spring 1020. In some embodiments, the return member 1010can be configured to contact and deform the return bump stop 1030 whenthe rotating assembly 500 is rotated from a first position to a secondposition. In some embodiments, the deformed locking bump stop 760 canforce the rotating assembly 500 towards a second rotational position andretain the cam 900 in a locked position due to the arrangement of thedrive yoke 530 and cam 900. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can unlockthe rotating assembly 500 and allow the rotating assembly 500 to rotatefrom a first rotational position to a second rotational position. Insome embodiments, the cam 900 can unlock the rotating assembly 500 whenthe adjustable height saddle post 300 is lowered from a raised positionto a lowered position.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4,motion of the drive pin 800 can cause the cam 900 to rotate. In someembodiments, the drive pin 800 moving from a first position to a secondposition can cause the cam 900 to rotate from a locked position to anunlocked position. In some embodiments, the ramp 840 of the drive pin800 can cooperate with the second portion 920 of the cam 900 to rotatethe cam 900 from a locked position to an unlocked position when thedrive pin 800 moves from a first position to a second position.

FIGS. 5A-5H illustrates cross section views of the saddle angleadjustment assembly 200 of FIG. 2 in various stages of motion. Thestages of motion depicted in FIGS. 5A-5H and the description of FIGS.5A-5H are intended to illustrate one embodiment of the possible stagesof motion the saddle angle adjustment assembly 200 and are intended tobe non-limiting. The description of each figure below describes thecurrent orientation and movement of the various parts of the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 400 in relation to the preceding figure.FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate one embodiment of the sequential steps oflowering the adjustable height saddle post 300 from a raised position toa lowered position and the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400rotating the rotating assembly 500 from a first rotational position to asecond rotational position. In FIG. 5A, the adjustable height saddlepost 300 is in a raised position. The rotating assembly 500 is locked inthe first rotational position. The drive pin 800 is located in the firstposition. The second portion 920 of the cam 900 is located within theramp 840 of the drive pin 800. The cam 900 is in a locked position. Thelocking bump stop 760 is compressed and the cam 900 has rotated“over-center”. The first portion 910 of the cam 900 is locked in placeagainst the first arm 531 of the drive yoke 530.

In FIG. 5B, the adjustable height saddle post 300 has moved from araised position towards the lowered position. The rider has unlocked thelocking mechanism (not illustrated) of the adjustable height saddle post300 and the upper support 320 has moved downwards relative to the lowersupport 310. The drive pin 800 has contacted the impact surface 314 andthe drive pin 800 has been forced upwards from the first positiontowards the second position. The ramp 840 of the drive pin 800 hascooperated with the second portion 920 of the cam 900 and has rotatedthe cam 900 from a locked position to an unlocked position. The drivepin 800 has contacted the second arm 532 of the drive yoke 530 but hasnot rotated the rotating assembly 500 from the first rotationalposition.

In FIG. 5C, the adjustable height saddle post 300 has moved from araised position towards the lowered position. The adjustable heightsaddle post 300 is nearly in the lowered position. The drive pin 800 hasbeen forced further upwards and is nearly in the second position. Thedrive pin 800 has forced the drive yoke 530 and rotating assembly 500 torotate from the first rotational position towards the second rotationalposition. The drive yoke 530 has forced the return member 1010 to slidethrough the return channel 740 and compress the return spring 1020. Thecam 900 has rotated completely out of the way of the first arm 531 ofthe drive yoke 530.

In FIG. 5D, the adjustable height saddle post 300 in a lowered position.The drive pin 800 has been forced upwards by the impact surface 314 intothe second position. The drive pin 800 has forced the drive yoke 530 androtating assembly 500 to rotate to the second rotational position. Thedrive yoke 530 has forced the return member 1010 into the return bumpstop 1030. The return spring 1020 has been compressed by the returnmember 1010. The locking mechanism of the adjustable height saddle post300 is now in the locked position (not illustrated) and limitingmovement between the lower support 310 and upper support 320, lockingthe saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 in place and the rotatingassembly 500 in the second rotational position.

FIGS. 5D-5H illustrate one embodiment of the sequential steps of raisingthe adjustable height saddle post 300 from the lowered position to araised position and the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 rotatingthe rotating assembly 500 form a second rotational position to a firstrotational position and locking the rotating assembly 500 in the firstrotational position. In FIG. 5E, the adjustable height saddle post 300is in a raised position. The rider has unlocked the locking mechanism ofthe adjustable height saddle post 300 and the upper support 320 hasmoved upwards relative to the lower support 310 and into a raisedposition. The impact surface 314 is no longer forcing the drive pin 800upwards into the second position and the drive spring 820 has begun tomove the drive pin 800 from the second position to the first position.The second portion 920 of the cam 900 has begun to enter the ramp 840 ofthe drive pin 800 due at least in part to the force of the cam spring940. The return member 1010 is abutting the return bump stop 1030 andthe return spring 1020 is compressed. The rotating assembly 500 is inthe second rotational position.

In FIG. 5F, the adjustable height saddle post 300 is in a raisedposition. The return spring 1020 has extended and the return member 1010moved away from the return bump stop 1030. The rotating assembly 500 hasrotated from the second rotational position towards the first rotationalposition. The rotating assembly 500 is nearly in the first rotationalposition. The drive pin 800 has moved further towards the firstposition. The ramp 840 of the drive pin 800 has moved down with thedrive pin 800 and allowed the cam 900 to rotate towards the lockedposition and the first portion 910 of the cam 900 has engaged the firstarm 531 of the drive yoke 530.

In FIG. 5G, the adjustable height saddle post 300 is in a raisedposition. The rotating assembly 500 has rotated past the firstrotational position, the locking bump stop 760 is compressed, and thecam 900 is now in the “center” configuration. The drive pin 800 hasmoved further towards the first position and is nearly in the firstposition.

In FIG. 5H, the adjustable height saddle post 300 is in a raisedposition. The rotating assembly 500 is now in the first rotationalposition. The cam 900 has rotated “over-center” and is now in the lockedposition. The locking bump stop 760 is compressed, forcing the driveyoke 530 towards the second rotational position and holding the cam 900in the locked position due to the arrangement of the drive yoke 530 andthe cam 900. The drive pin 800 is now in the first position.

In some embodiments, the weight of the rider on the saddle 105 can helpto rotate the rotating assembly 500 towards the first rotationalposition. In some embodiments, the weight of the rider on the saddle 105can help to compress the locking bump stop 760 and allow the cam 900 torotate into the locked position. In other embodiments, the weight of therider on the saddle 105 can help to rotate the rotating assembly 500towards the second rotational position. In some embodiments, the weightof the rider on the saddle 105 can help to compress the return spring1020.

FIG. 6A-B illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400′. In some embodiments, the drive yoke 530′ caninclude a locking portion 533′ configured to accept a portion of the cam900′. The locking portion 533′ can include a recess configured to accepta first portion 910′ of the cam 900′. The locking portion 533′ caninclude a protrusion configured to engage a first portion 910′ of thecam 900′. The cam 900′ can be biased by the cam spring 940′ such thatthe first portion 910′ rotatably engages the locking portion 533′ of thedrive yoke 530′ and locks the rotating assembly 500′ in a firstrotational position, as illustrated in FIG. 6A. The second portion 920′of the cam 900′ can be configured to cooperate with the ramp 840′ of thedrive pin 800′ such that the cam 900′ rotates from a locked position toan unlocked position when the drive pin 800′ moves upwards from a firstposition to a second position, as illustrated in FIG. 6B. In someembodiments, the first portion 910″ of the cam 900″ can include a rollerto engage the locking portion 533″ as illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 8A-B illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400′″. In some embodiments, the cam 900′″ can beconfigured to slide linearly within the body 700′″ of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400′″ between a locked position and an unlockedposition. The first portion 910′″ of the cam 900′″ can be configured toslidably engage the locking portion 533′″ of the drive yoke 530′″ andlock the rotating assembly 500′″ in a first rotational position, asillustrated in FIG. 8A. The second portion 920′″ of the cam 900′″ can beconfigured to cooperate with the ramp 840′″ of the drive pin 800′″ suchthat the cam 900′″ slides from a locked position to an unlocked positionwhen the drive pin 800′″ moves upwards form a first position to a secondposition, as illustrated in FIG. 8B.

FIG. 9A-D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400″″. In some embodiments, the cam 900″″ caninclude a first portion 910″″ configured to engage a surface of thedrive yoke 530″″ opposite the surface of the drive yoke 530″″ configuredto engage the drive pin 800″″ when the cam 900″″ is in a lockedposition, as illustrated in FIG. 9A. The drive pin 800″″ can include aramp 840″″ configured to engage the second portion 920″″ of the cam900″″, as illustrated in FIG. 9D, and rotate the cam 900″″ from a lockedposition to an unlocked position, as illustrated in FIGS. 9B and 9C.

FIG. 10A-D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400′″″. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG.10A, the drive pin 800′″″ can be pivotally coupled to a lever arm801′″″, wherein the lever arm is also pivotally coupled to the body700′″″ of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400′″″ and the cam900′″″. The drive pin 800′″″ can also be pivotally and slidably coupledto the drive yoke 530′″″ as illustrated in FIG. 10A. The lever arm801′″″ can be configured such that the lever arm 801′″″ rotates when thedrive pin 800′″″ moves form a first position, as illustrated in FIG.10A, to a second position as illustrated in FIG. 10C. The lever arm801′″″ can be configured such that the cam 900′″″ slidably movesrelative to the body 700′″″ from a locked position, as illustrated inFIG. 10A, to an unlocked position, as illustrated in FIGS. 11B-D, whenthe drive pin 800′″″ moves from a first position to a second position.The drive pin 800′″″ can be configured to slide within a channel 534′″″in the drive yoke 530′″″ for a portion the range of travel of the drivepin 800′″″ and then hit the end of the channel 534′″″ as the drive pin800′″″ moves from a first position to a second position. The drive pin800′″″ can force the rotating assembly 500′″″ to rotate from a firstrotational position to a second rotational position as the drive pin800′″″ moves from a first position to a second position. The channel534′″″ can include a drive spring 820′″″ configured to force the drivepin 800′″″ towards the first position.

FIG. 11A-D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angleadjustment mechanism 400″″″. In some embodiments, the rotating assembly500″″″ can include a locking channel 521″″″. The locking channel can beformed in the outer member 520″″″ as illustrated in FIG. 11A. In otherembodiments, the locking channel 521″″″ can be formed in the drive yoke530″″″ or another part of the rotating assembly 500″″″. The cam 900″″″can be configured to slide within the body 700″″″ between a lockedposition, as illustrated in FIG. 11A, and an unlocked position, asillustrated in FIG. 11B-D. The cam 900″″″ can be disposed within thelocking channel 521″″″ when the cam 900″″″ is in a locked position andnot disposed within the locking channel 521″″″ when the cam 900″″″ is inan unlocked position. The drive pin 800″″″ can include a ramp 840″″″configured to slidably engage a second portion 920″″″ of the cam 900″″″and force the cam 900″″″ to slide from the locked position to theunlocked position when the drive pin 800″″″ moves from a first position,as illustrated in FIG. 11A, to a second position, as illustrated in FIG.11B.

In some embodiments, with reference to the cross-sectional viewsillustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, and the exploded view illustrated inFIG. 14, the adjustable height saddle post 300 of FIG. 2 can be referredto as a seat post assembly 20′″″″. In some embodiments, the seat postassembly 20′″″″ can include a first support, such as, for example anouter support 30′″″″ and a second support, such as, for example, aninner support 60′″″″. The outer support 30′″″″ can comprise a pluralityof circumferential grooves 40′″″″, recesses or other features along itsinterior surface. As discussed in greater detail herein, the grooves40′″″″ along the interior of the outer support 30′″″″ are preferablysized, shaped and otherwise adapted to be engaged by a collet or otherexpansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″. In the depictedarrangement, the outer support 30′″″″ includes a total of eight grooves40′″″″ that are situated immediately adjacent to each other. Inaddition, each of the illustrated grooves 40′″″″ can include anidentical or substantially identical curved shape. However, in otherembodiments, the quantity, size, shape, spacing, location and/or otherdetails of the grooves 40′″″″ can vary, as desired or required by aparticular application or use. For example, the radius of curvature ofthe grooves 40′″″″ can be greater or less than illustrated herein. Inaddition, the grooves 40′″″″ can extend along a greater or lesserportion of the interior of the outer support 30′″″″.

The outer support 30′″″″, the inner support 60′″″″ and/or any otherportion of the seat post assembly 20′″″″ can comprise one or morematerials, such as, for example, aluminum, titanium, steel, other metalsor alloys, carbon fiber, thermoplastics and/or the like. Regardless ofthe exact materials or combination of materials used, the outer andinner supports 30′″″″, 60′″″″ are preferably designed to withstand thevarious forces, moments and other stresses to which they may besubjected. The grooves 40′″″″ along the interior of the outer support30′″″″ and/or any other feature along the inside or outside of the outeror inner supports 30′″″″, 60′″″″ can be formed at the same time thatsuch supports are manufactured. Alternatively, the grooves 40′″″″ or anyother feature can be machined or otherwise formed subsequent to themanufacture of the supports 30′″″″, 60′″″″ using one or more formingmethods.

With continued reference to FIG. 12, the lower portion of the outersupport 30′″″″ can include a pad 44′″″″ or other bottom portion thatprevents the inner support 60′″″″ from being lowered beyond a desiredthreshold location. As shown, the lower portion of the outer support30′″″″ can also include a lower groove 42′″″″, which the collet 70′″″″or other expansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″ can generallyengage when the inner support 60′″″″ is moved to or near such lowerthreshold position or other lowest setting relative to the outer support30′″″″.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the lower portion of the outer support 30′″″″can comprise a spring or air plug assembly 50′″″″. In some embodiments,the air plug assembly 50′″″″ is situated below the pad 44′″″″ or otherportion or member which vertically restricts the further lowering of theinner support 60′″″″ within the outer support 30′″″″. The air plugassembly 50′″″″ can be configured to maintain a volume of pressurizedair or other fluid within the interior of the outer support 30′″″″. Forexample, in the depicted arrangement, the air plug assembly 50′″″″extends across the entire cross-sectional area of the outer support30′″″″. One or more O-rings 56′″″″ or other sealing members can begenerally positioned between the circumferential edges of the air plugassembly 50′″″″ and the interior wall of the outer support 30′″″″ tohelp maintain air or other fluids within the interior of the outersupport 30′″″″. Further, a seal head portion 32′″″″ can also helpmaintain a desired air spring.

With continued reference to FIG. 12, the air plug assembly 50′″″″ caninclude a Schrader valve 54′″″″ or other air regulating device. TheSchrader valve 54′″″″ or other air regulating device can be configuredto permit a rider to inject air or other fluids within the cavity 58′″″″in the outer support formed above the air plug assembly 50′″″″. Asdiscussed in greater detail herein, the cavity 58′″″″ can be pressuredusing air or other fluids in order to create an air spring thateffectively exerts a force on the inner support 60′″″″ (e.g., theportions of the inner support 60′″″″ that are immediately adjacent tothe cavity 58′″″″). In the illustrated embodiment, the Schrader valve isaccessible from the bottom, open end of the outer support 30′″″″.However, in other arrangements, the Schrader valve or air regulatingdevice can be positioned along a different part of the seat postassembly 20′″″″. Further, a coiled spring, a different type of resilientmember or another type of device or method can be used to exert a forceon the inner support 60′″″″, either in lieu of or in addition to an airspring.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the adjustable seat post assembly 20′″″″ cancomprise an inner support 60′″″″ that is slidably positioned relative tothe outer support 30′″″″. In some embodiments, as illustrated herein,the outer and inner supports 30′″″″, 60′″″″ comprise generally hollow,cylindrical tube shapes. However, in other arrangements, the shape,size, thickness and/or other details of the support 30′″″″, 60′″″″ canvary, as desired or required. In the depicted arrangement, the innersupport is configured to be placed within the top end of the outersupport 30′″″″. However, as discussed herein, the seat post assembly20′″″″ can be differently configured so that the positions of the innersupport 60′″″″ and the outer support 30′″″″ can be reversed (e.g., theinner support can be placed within a bottom end outer support).

With continued reference to FIGS. 12, 13, and 14, the inner support60′″″″ can include a collet or other expansion portion 70′″″″ along itslower end. The expansion portion 70′″″″ can comprise a slotted collet,another type of resilient member or other nonresilient expandablemember. In the depicted embodiment, the expansion portion 70′″″″ is aseparate member that is secured to the inner support 60′″″″. Theexpansion portion 70′″″″ and the adjacent surfaces of the inner support60′″″″ can be machined to include one or more features (e.g., grooves,other recesses, protrusions, etc.) that can be used to mechanicallyengage each other. Alternatively, the expansion portion 70′″″″ and theinner support 60′″″″ can be connected using one or more other attachmentdevices or methods, such as, for example, tabs, screws, welds, rivets,fasteners, flanges, adhesives, friction-fit connections and/or the like.In other arrangements, the inner support 60′″″″ is integrally formedwith the expansion portion 70′″″″. In FIGS. 12 and 13, the collet 70′″″″is generally secured at the end of the inner support 60′″″″. However,the collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion can be positioned along anyother location of the inner support 60′″″″.

FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a collet70′″″″ adapted to be attached to the inner support 60′″″″ of the seatpost assembly 20′″″″. As shown, the collet 70′″″″ can include one ormore slots 72′″″″ and/or other features that permit it to resilientlycontract inwardly. In the depicted arrangement, each of the slots 72′″″″is vertically oriented and terminates at a circular opening 74′″″″located along the collet body. The slots 72′″″″ desirably divide thecollet 70′″″″ into a series of collet sections or arms 75′″″″.

With continued reference to FIGS. 12-15A, the collet 70′″″″ can includea projecting portion 76′″″″ that is configured to engage one of thegrooves 40′″″″ positioned along the interior wall of the outer support30′″″″. However, one or more other areas of the collet 70′″″″ or otherexpansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″ can be adapted to engage agroove 40′″″″ of the outer support 30′″″″. In other embodiments, thecollet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion is configured to engage aninterior of the outer support 30′″″″ along an area that does not includeany grooves 40′″″″ or other distinguishing features (e.g., a generallysmooth surface of the internal surface of the outer support 30′″″″).

The quantity, size, shape, spacing and/or other details of the slots72′″″″, openings 74′″″″, and/or arms 75′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″ canvary, as desired or required. For example, in some embodiments, thecollet 70′″″″ may not include any slots or openings at all. Instead, thecollet 70′″″″ can be configured so that one or more of its portions canbe resiliently contracted and expanded (e.g., circumferentially).Alternatively, the slots between certain collet arms could be very wide,such that there is a large angular portion of the circumference of thecollet 70′″″″ which does not have a physical structure which mates withthe grooves of the outer support. Desirably, however, the arms defineprojecting portions which extend at least 180 degrees, at least 240degrees, at least 270 degrees, at least 300 degrees, at least 320degrees and preferably substantially entirely around the 360 degreecircumference of the collet.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12-15A, the projecting portion 76′″″″ of thecollet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″ canbe shaped, sized and otherwise configured to match or substantiallymatch the shape of the grooves 40 positioned along the interior wall ofthe outer support 30′″″″. Accordingly, the projecting portion 76′″″″ cangenerally snugly engage one of the grooves when in its circumferentiallyexpanded state. As discussed in greater detail herein, the projectingportion 76′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″ can be selectively permitted toretract inwardly in order for the collet 70′″″″ to engage a differentgroove 40′″″″ or other area along the interior wall of the outer support30′″″″. Consequently, the vertical position of the inner support 60′″″″can be selectively varied relative to the outer support 30′″″″.

In certain arrangements, the collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portioncomprises spring steel and/or another resilient material. As isdiscussed in greater detail herein, the use of such materials permitsthe collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion to retract and expand asdifferent portions of the contoured interior wall of the outer support30′″″″ are engaged. In one arrangement, the collet 70′″″″ is configuredto remain in an expanded position (as illustrated in FIGS. 12-15A) whenno forces are acting on it.

As discussed in greater detail herein, for example, with reference toFIGS. 12-15C, the expansion portion of the inner support can include oneor more other devices or features to engage an interior wall of theouter support. In some embodiments, the expansion portion comprises oneor more pawls, balls and/or other sections, portions or features thatengage corresponding features or portions of the outer support. Forexample, such pawls, balls or other items can swing, slide, roll orotherwise move radially outwardly (e.g., from a retracted ornon-expanded orientation).

The inner support 60′″″″ can include a retention assembly 80′″″″, whichin some embodiments, is normally biased to at least partially fit withinan interior of the collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion (e.g.,pawls, balls, over movable features, etc.). In some embodiments, asdiscussed in greater detail herein, the retention assembly 80′″″″comprises a bearing portion 81′″″″ and a locking portion 90′″″″. Inother arrangements, however, the retention assembly 80′″″″ can includeonly the bearing portion 81′″″″ or only the locking portion 90′″″″. Inaddition, a retention assembly 80 can include one or more other portionsor members, either in addition to or in lieu of the bearing portion81′″″″ and/or the locking portion 90′″″″. Regardless of its exactconfiguration, the retention assembly 80′″″″ is preferably adapted tomaintain the collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion of the innersupport 60′″″″ in an expanded position so that the collet 70′″″″ orother expansion portion remains engaged to a groove 40′″″″ or otherinterior portion of the outer support 30′″″″. As discussed in greaterdetail herein, this prevents relative movement between the inner support60′″″″ and the outer support 30′″″″, thereby maintaining the verticalposition of the bicycle saddle.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the bearing portion 81′″″″ can comprise agenerally tubular upper portion and a circumferentially enlarged lowerportion 82′″″″. In some arrangements, the enlarged lower portion 82′″″″includes a tapered outer surface 83′″″″ that is sized, shaped, slopedand otherwise configured to correspond and generally mate with anadjacent tapered inner surface 77′″″″ along the projecting portion ofthe collet 70′″″″ when the enlarged lower portion 82′″″″ is resilientlybiased thereagainst. An exploded view of one embodiment of an innersupport 60 comprising a retention assembly 80′″″″ is illustrated in FIG.14.

According to some embodiments, the inner support 60 includes one or morecoil springs or other biasing members that help urge the retentionassembly 80′″″″ (e.g., the bearing portion 81′″″″, the locking portion90′″″″, etc.) toward the interior of the collet 70′″″″. For example, asshown in FIG. 13, a spring housing 86′″″″ or another similar member(e.g., plate, other abutting surface, etc.) can be used to maintain adesired biasing force against the bearing portion 81′″″″ of theretention assembly 80′″″″. As is discussed in greater detail herein, thebearing portion 81′″″″ and/or any other portion of the retentionassembly 80′″″″ can be selectively moved against the biasing force ofone or more springs 88′″″″ or other resilient members in order to movethe enlarged lower portion 82′″″″ of the bearing portion 81′″″″ and/orany other portion of the retention assembly 80′″″″ upwardly, generallyout of the interior of the projecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet70′″″″ or other expansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″. This canadvantageously permit the projecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″to be retracted when a sufficiently large upwardly or downwardlyoriented force is applied to the inner support 60′″″″. Consequently, theinner support 60′″″″ can be slidably moved relative to the outer support30′″″″. Thus, the vertical position of a saddle or other seating memberattached to the inner support 60′″″″ can be selectively changed.

As discussed, the retention assembly 80′″″″ can help to maintain or“lock” the projecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″ in itsnormally expanded state to prevent relative movement between the outerand inner supports 30′″″″, 60′″″″. To further ensure that the projectingportion 76′″″″ remains expanded, the retention assembly 80′″″″ caninclude a locking portion 90′″″″ or other similar portion, feature ordevice. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13, the lockingportion 90′″″″ is generally positioned underneath and immediatelyadjacent to the bearing portion 81′″″″. As shown, the locking portion90′″″″ can be slidably positioned within a center cavity of the bearingportion 81′″″″. In other arrangements, however, the relative position ofthe bearing portion 81′″″″ and the locking portion 90′″″″, the manner inwhich such components interact and/or other details of these componentscan vary, as desired or required.

Similar to the bearing portion 81′″″″, the locking portion 90′″″″ can beresiliently biased toward an interior portion of the projecting portion76′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″ using one or more coil springs 94′″″″ orother resilient members. For example, as shown, a spring 94′″″″ can bepositioned within an interior cavity portion of the bearing portion81′″″″ so that it exerts a downwardly-directed force on the lockingportion 90′″″″. In the illustrated arrangement, the locking portion90′″″″ is configured to contact the enlarged lower portion 82′″″″ of thebearing portion 81′″″″ if it is moved sufficiently far against theurging force of the spring 94′″″″ (e.g., upwardly as depicted).Therefore, in order to move the lower portion 82′″″″ of the bearingportion 81′″″″ out of the projecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet70′″″″, the locking portion 90′″″″ is moved (e.g., upwardly asillustrated in FIG. 13) until it contacts the enlarged lower portion82′″″″ of the bearing portion 81′″″″. Then, the continued movement ofthe locking portion 90′″″″ will cause the locking portion 90′″″″ andbearing portion 81′″″″ to simultaneously move against the biasing forceof one or more springs 88′″″″, 94′″″″. If the retention assembly 80′″″″(e.g., the locking portion 90′″″″, the bearing portion 81′″″″, etc.) aremoved far enough away from the interior of the projecting portion 76′″″″of the collet 70′″″″ (or other expansion portion), the collet 70′″″″ canbe allowed to retract inwardly so that the inner support 60′″″″ may bemoved relative to the outer support 30′″″″.

Although in the embodiments illustrated and discussed herein theretention assembly 80′″″″ includes a bearing portion 81′″″″ and alocking portion 90′″″″, it will be appreciated that the retentionassembly 80′″″″ may only have a bearing portion 81′″″″ or similar deviceto prevent the collet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion of the innersupport 60′″″″ from retracting inwardly. Alternatively, the retentionassembly 80′″″″ may only include a locking portion 90′″″″ and no bearingportion 81′″″″. However, in some embodiments, the use of an expandingportion or other portion having sloped exterior surfaces, such as, forexample, the bearing portion 81′″″″, is preferred, because such aportion helps ensure that the secure mating of the collet 70′″″″ withthe grooves, despite wear or manufacturing. In addition, in otherarrangements, the adjustable post assembly 20′″″″ can comprise acompletely different method of ensuring that the collet 70′″″″ or otherexpansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″ remains engaged with agroove 40′″″″ or other portion of the outer support. For example, theretention assembly 80′″″″ that is configured to maintain the collet 70or other expansion portion of the inner support 60′″″″ can comprise aless or more complicated design. In some embodiments, the retentionassembly 80′″″″ comprises only a single portion and/or component (e.g.,a bearing portion 81′″″″, a locking portion, any other portion ormember, etc.). In other arrangements, the retention assembly 80′″″″includes two, three, four or more different portions and/or components.

As noted above, an expansion portion can include any one of a pluralityof movable members that can selectively engage an interior wall of theouter support. By way of example, with reference to the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 15B and 15C, the expansion portion 70″″″″ cancomprise one or more balls 72″″″″ that roll between a radiallycontracted position (FIG. 15B) and a radially expanded position (FIG.15C). In other configurations, pawls, tabs or other items can swing,slide, roll or otherwise move between such radially contracted andexpanded positions. As with the collet arrangements disclosed herein,such movable members can be configured to maintain a normally radiallyexpanded position or other outward orientation (e.g., so that themovable members are able to contact and engage with a correspondingfeature or portion of the outer support). In some embodiments, thepawls, balls or other members of an expandable or movable portion areresiliently biased in a radially expanded configuration (e.g., using oneor more springs, other resilient devices, etc.). Alternatively, adesired outwardly-orientation configuration can be maintained for suchcomponents or features using one or more other devices or methods, suchas, for example, sleeves, levers, cams, pins and/or the like.

The pawls, balls or other movable members that are included in anexpansion portion can be locked in a radially expanded orientation usinga retention assembly. The retention assembly can be similar to thosediscussed herein with reference to FIGS. 12-14 for the colletembodiments and enjoying certain advantages. Alternatively, however,other types of designs can be used to ensure that the movable membersare safely and adequately maintained in a desired orientation (e.g.,radially outward).

For example, for an expansion portion comprising one or more balls,which are adapted to roll outwardly in order to engage correspondingfeatures along the adjacent interior wall of the outer support, a sleeveor other portion of a retention assembly can be moved within an interiorportion of the expansion portion to help urge and maintain (e.g., lock)the balls along an outer periphery of the expansion portion. In someembodiments, the sleeve or other portion of a retention assembly ensuresthat the balls or other movable members remain in the outwardly expandedorientation as long as the position of the sleeve or other portion of aretention assembly is adequately maintained relative to the expansionportion. In FIG. 15C, for instance, a sleeve 80″″″″ or other portion ofa retention assembly can be moved within an interior portion of theexpansion portion 70″″″″ to ensure that the balls 72″″″″ are moved andretained in a radially outward orientation.

Regardless of their exact configuration, the movable components orfeatures (e.g., pawls, balls, etc.) of an expansion portion desirablycan be moved between a radially expanded and a radially contractedposition to selectively adjust the vertical position of an inner supportrelative to an outer support. Accordingly, as discussed herein withreference to the collet embodiments, the vertical position of a seatpost, a fork and/or other portion of a bicycle can be advantageouslyadjusted by a rider.

In some embodiments, an actuation device or system can be used to movethe retention assembly 80′″″″ (e.g., the bearing portion 81′″″″, thelocking portion 90′″″″, etc.) and/or any other portion of the seat postassembly 20′″″″. With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a cable 100′″″″,rod, connector or other movable portion that extends through theinterior of the inner support 60′″″″ is operatively connected to a cablelock member 92′″″″ situated below the bearing portion 81′″″″ and thelocking portion 90′″″″. In the illustrated arrangement, the cable lockmember 92′″″″ is secured to the adjacent locking portion 90′″″″ usingone or more connection devices or methods, such as, for example,threaded fasteners, rivets, other type of fasteners, welds, pins,adhesives and/or the like. Alternatively, the cable lock member 92′″″″can be attached to the bearing portion 81′″″″ and/or any other portionof the retention assembly 80′″″″, either in addition to or in lieu ofsimply being attached to the locking portion 90′″″″.

With continued reference to the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 12 and13, the cable 100′″″″, rod, connector or other movable member can beinserted within a passage of the cable lock member 92′″″″. Further, thecable 100′″″″ can be secured to the cable lock member 92′″″″ byinserting and tightening a set screw or other fastener within one ormore lateral openings 94′″″″. However, one or more alternative devicesor methods may be used to secure the cable 100′″″″ to the cable lockmember 92′″″″. The cable 100′″″″, rod, connector or other movable memberpreferably comprises one or more durable materials configured towithstand the forces and stresses to which it may be exposed during useof the adjustable seat post assembly 20′″″″. For instance, the cable100′″″″ can comprise one or more metals (e.g., steel), thermoplastics,composites and/or the like.

In the embodiments of the adjustable seat post assembly illustratedherein, the cable 100′″″″ is configured to be routed through or near theaxial center of the inner support 60′″″″. Accordingly, one or more ofthe components of the inner support 60′″″″ may need to be configured toaccommodate the unobstructed passage of the cable therethrough. Asshown, for example, the upper cylindrical portion of the retentionassembly 80′″″″ (e.g., bearing portion 81′″″″, locking portion 90′″″″,etc.) can include an opening 84′″″″ through which the cable 100′″″″ isrouted. In addition, the cable 100′″″″ can be routed through one or moreother components of the seat post assembly 20′″″″, including, but notlimited to, springs 88′″″″, 94′″″″, the spring housing 86′″″″, thecollet 70′″″″ or other expansion portion and/or the like.

In FIG. 12, the cable 100′″″″, rod or other movable member is attachedto a pull rod assembly 110′″″″ located at or near the upper end of theinner support 60′″″″. As discussed herein with respect to the connectionbetween the cable 100′″″″ and the cable lock member 92′″″″, one or moredevices or methods can be used to secure the cable 100′″″″ to the pullrod assembly 110′″″″. In some embodiments, a desired amount of tensioncan be maintained in the cable 100′″″″ situated within the seat postassembly 20′″″″. In the illustrated arrangement, such tension in thecable 100′″″″ is created by positioning a spring 118′″″″ or otherresilient member between a top interior surface of the inner support60′″″″ and a spring plate 116′″″″ that is attached to the pull rodassembly 110′″″″. In turn, the pull rod assembly 110′″″″ can bemechanically connected to another cable (not shown), rod or other memberthat is configured to operatively connect the pull rod assembly 110′″″″and the cable 100′″″″ to a lever, switch, button and/or other actuationdevice. In some embodiments, such a lever or other actuation device ispositioned at or near the handlebar area of a bicycle to permit a riderto conveniently manipulate the seat post assembly. Alternatively, thepull rod assembly 110′″″″ and the cable 100′″″″ can be operativelyconnected to a lever or other actuation device located at a differentlocation of the bicycle (e.g., underneath the saddle, along one or moreof the frame members, etc.).

As discussed, when the cable 100′″″″ is retracted from its restingposition (e.g., moved upwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13), aretention assembly 80′″″″ (e.g., the bearing portion 80′″″″, the lockingportion 90′″″″, sleeve and/or any other portions or components of theretention assembly 80′″″″) may be moved away from the interior of theprojecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet 70′″″″ or other expansionportion (e.g., balls, pawls, other movable members, etc.) formed with orattached to the inner support 60′″″″. Consequently, the collet 70′″″″ orother expandable member can be permitted to retract or otherwise move(e.g., slide, roll, etc.) inwardly so that the expansion portion (e.g.,the projecting portion 76′″″″ of the collet, balls, pawls, etc.) canselectively engage another groove 40′″″″ or another interior surface orportion of the inner support 60′″″″. Likewise, when the cable 100′″″″ ispermitted to resiliently revert to its resting position (e.g., with theassistance of one or more springs 88′″″″, 94′″″″, 118′″″″ or otherbiasing members), the retention assembly 80′″″″ can move within theinterior of the projecting portion of the collet 70′″″″, therebyrestricting or limiting the collet's ability to retract inwardly. Asdiscussed in greater detail herein, this can help prevent or reducerelative movement between the outer support 30′″″″ and the inner support60′″″″.

By way of example, FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate various views of oneembodiment of a mechanically-actuated adjustable assembly 920′″″″. Inthe depicted arrangement, the control cable C is configured to passthrough the seal head portion of the assembly 920′″″″. As discussed withreference to other arrangements disclosed herein, the assembly 920′″″″can include an inner support or tube 960′″″″ that is sized, shaped andotherwise configured to be slidably disposed within at least a portionof an outer support or tube 930′″″″. In some embodiments, the outersupport 930′″″″ is configured to secure to the bicycle frame and toremain substantially stationary relative to the bicycle frame. Incontrast, the inner support 960′″″″, which may be secured to a bicyclesaddle, will be permitted to move relative to the adjacent outer support930′″″″ and the bicycle frame, allowing a rider to advantageously adjustthe height of the saddle during use. Thus, the need to provide a minimumamount of slack in the control cable length that exits the adjustableassembly is eliminated or reduced.

With reference to the perspective views of FIGS. 16B and 16C, themechanically-actuated control cable C can be removably or permanentlysecured to a hinge assembly 936′″″″ located at or near the seal headportion 932′″″″ of the assembly 920′″″″. In some embodiments, the cableC is connected to a cable retention member 937′″″″ that is operativelycoupled to the hinge assembly 936′″″″. For clarity, one or morecomponents of the assembly, such as the outer tube and certaincomponents of the seal head portion 932′″″″, have been hidden in thesefigures to more clearly view the manner in which mechanical actuation ofthe cables is accomplished. As shown, a cable 938′″″″ can extend fromthe hinge assembly 936′″″″ of the seal head portion 932′″″″ anddownwardly along the interior of the outer tube (not shown in FIGS. 16Band 16C for clarity).

With continued reference to the cross-sectional view provided in FIG.16D, the cable 938′″″″ can be routed to or near the bottom of theassembly's outer tube or support 930′″″″ where the cable's direction isreversed using a pulley 952′″″″ or similar device. As shown, the pulley952′″″″ can advantageously align the cable 938′″″″ with the radialcenterline of the assembly, such that the cable is routed upwardlythrough the interior of the outer tube (and possible one or more of theouter tube's internal components). According to some embodiments, thecable 938′″″″ is mechanically coupled to a retention assembly 980′″″″that is resiliently biased, at least partially, within an interior of acollet or other expansion member or portion 970′″″″. As discussed hereinwith reference to other embodiments, the expansion portion 970′″″″ issized, shaped and otherwise configured to engage a corresponding groove,recess and/or other surface of the inner tube 960′″″″ to maintain adesired relative orientation between the inner and outer tubes 960′″″″,930′″″″. In addition, when the retention assembly 980′″″″ is positionedwithin an interior region or space of the collet or other expansionportion 970′″″″, the expansion portion is not permitted to retractinwardly, thereby further assuring that the expansion portion 970′″″″will remain in engaging contact with the inner tube.

In some embodiments, the control cable C which is secured to the cableretention member 937′″″″ and which exits the seal head portion 932′″″″is the same cable 938′″″″ routed within an interior of the outer tube930′″″″ (e.g., around the pulley) that ultimately couples to theretention assembly 980′″″″. However, in other arrangements, the interiorcable 938′″″″ is different than the control cable C that exits theassembly. In such an embodiment, the separate cables 938′″″″, C can beoperatively coupled to each other at or near the seal head portion932′″″″ (e.g., by the cable retention member 937′″″″, the hinge assembly936′″″″ and/or one or more other components or devices).

Accordingly, in order to avoid the need for slack in the control cableC, the collet or other expansion portion 970′″″″ may be secured to theouter or lower tube or support 930′″″″, and the grooves or recesses(and/or other surfaces) that are engaged by the expansion portion970′″″″ are located along an interior surface of the inner or upper tubeor support 960′″″″. This is generally opposite of at least some of theadjustable assembly embodiments illustrated and discussed herein (e.g.,see FIGS. 12-14). Thus, regardless of the exact location and orientationof the expansion portion, the grooves or recess and/or the like, theadjustable assembly can function in a similar manner. For example, inthe embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16D, an air spring (and/or some other typeof spring or resilient member) can be provided within the upper or lowertube to ensure that an upwardly directed force is applied to the uppertube.

FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate an embodiment of an adjustable assembly1020′″″″ wherein the mechanically-actuated control cable C, anadditional embodiment of the cable 321′″″″ of FIG. 2, exits at or nearthe bottom of the assembly. As best depicted in the cross-sectionalviews of FIGS. 17B-17D, the control cable C exits the assembly at ornear the bottom of the outer tube 1030′″″″. For clarity, at least aportion of the outer tube 1030′″″″ is hidden in these figures. The cableC can be coupled to a pivot or hinge assembly 1036′″″″, such that whenthe cable is pulled downwardly (e.g., generally away from the assembly),the pivot or hinge assembly 1036′″″″ will be moved against a resilientor other biasing force to also move the interior cable 1038′″″″downwardly (e.g., toward the bottom of the assembly). Such a downwardmovement of the cable 1038′″″″ will cause the retention assembly1080′″″″ that is directly or indirectly coupled to the cable 1038′″″″ toalso move downwardly against a biasing force created by one or moresprings S or other resilient members. As discussed herein with regard toother embodiments, movement of the retention assembly 1080′″″″ relativeto the interior of the collet or other expansion portion or member1070′″″″ can permit the expansion portion to retract inwardly.Accordingly, the expansion portion 1070′″″″ can disengage from acorresponding groove, recess and/or other portion of the interior wallof the inner tube 1060′″″″, allowing the rider to conveniently andreliably adjust the vertical position of the adjustable assembly.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17A-17D,the collet or other expansion portion 1070′″″″ can be coupled to one ormore tubes or members 1052′″″″ positioned within an interior space ofthe outer tube 1030′″″″. In some embodiments, such interior tubes ormembers 1052′″″″ are maintained in a rigid orientation relative to theouter tube 1030′″″″ using one or more plugs 1058′″″″ or other members orcomponents. The use of interior tubes, plugs and/or other components canassist in reinforcing the assembly and improve the structural integrityand/or capacity of the collet or other expansion portion 1070′″″″.

FIGS. 18A-31 illustrate another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustmentassembly 18200, wherein a saddle 105 is capable of being tilted betweena first rotational position and a second rotational position. Forexample, FIG. 18A illustrates the saddle 105 in the first rotationalposition. The first rotational position may be referred to herein as araised position, tilted forward position, level position, and/or thelike. In the first rotational position, in some embodiments, the saddle105 and/or a saddle rail 107 of the saddle 105 is positionedsubstantially level or parallel with a ground plane when an unweightedbicycle is positioned on a horizontal ground plane. Although the saddle105 in FIG. 18A is substantially parallel to a ground plane, the saddle105 is in a tilted forward position with respect to a central axis ofthe adjustable height seat post assembly 300.

The second rotational position may be referred to herein as a loweredposition, tilted backward position, and/or the like. As can be seen inFIG. 18B, in the second rotational position, the saddle 105 is no longerlevel with a ground plane but is tilted backward with respect to aground plane with the back end of the saddle lower than the front end ofthe saddle. In this position, as shown in FIG. 18B, the saddle isgenerally perpendicular to a central axis of the seat post 300. However,in some embodiments, the second rotational position does not necessarilyhave to be a position wherein the saddle is perpendicular to an axis ofa seat post. Rather, the second rotational position can be anyrotational position wherein the angle α shown in FIG. 19 and describedin greater detail below is larger than in the first rotational position.

FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate side views of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 18200 installed on a bicycle frame 110. In FIG. 18A, theadjustable height saddle post 300 is shown in a raised position, and thesaddle 105 is shown in a raised, tilted forward, or level position(e.g., the first rotational position). As with various other embodimentsdisclosed herein, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 can beconfigured to automatically tilt the saddle 105 backwards when theadjustable height saddle post 300 moves to a lowered position. FIG. 18Billustrates a side view of the adjustable height saddle post 300 in thelowered position and the saddle 105 tilted backwards (e.g., in thesecond rotational position).

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 18400 of FIGS. 18A and 18B. The saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 18400 comprises a saddle receiver 19510 configured to matewith saddle rails 107 of the saddle 105. The saddle receiver 19510further comprises rail retaining members 19600 configured to clampagainst the saddle rails 107 to hold or constrain the saddle 105 inposition relative to the saddle receiver 19510. As described in greaterdetail below, the saddle receiver 19510 and a rotating arm 2002 form arotating saddle support assembly rotatably coupled to a hydraulicactuating mechanism configured to selectively enable rotating a saddlebetween a forward and a back position.

Similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and described above,the saddle receiver 19510 defines a partially cylindrical surface whichdefines a rail receiving axis which is collinear with a central axis ofa portion of the rail 107 engaging the saddle angle adjustment mechanism18400. The saddle angle “α” shown in FIG. 19 is defined by the anglebetween the rail receiving axis and the central axis of the uppersupport 320 of the adjustable height seat post 300. In variousembodiments, the saddle angle α can have a range of adjustment betweenthe first rotational position and the second rotational position similarto the ranges described above with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. Further,adjustments of the adjustable height saddle post 300 can result inadjustments of the saddle angle α similar to as described above withreference to FIGS. 2 and 3. Additionally, in some embodiments, anadjustment of the saddle post 300 of at least five millimeters canresult in enabling the saddle 105 to rotate between the first and secondrotational positions. In other embodiments, other magnitudes of movementof the saddle post 300 may result in enabling the saddle 105 to rotatebetween the first and second rotational positions, as further describedbelow.

FIGS. 20-23 illustrate additional views of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 18200. FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the saddleangle adjustment assembly 18200, FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of thesaddle angle adjustment assembly 18200, FIG. 22 illustrates an explodedview of the saddle angle adjustment assembly 18200, and FIG. 23illustrates a cross sectional view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 18200.

The saddle angle adjustment assembly 18200 comprises the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 18400 connected to an adjustable height saddle postcomprising an upper support 320 and a lower support 310. The saddleangle adjustment mechanism 18400 comprises a hydraulic actuatingmechanism (described in more detail below) that interacts with a colletmechanism of the adjustable height saddle post to enable automaticactuation of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism when the uppersupport 320 is moved with respect to the lower support 310.

The height of the saddle post shown in FIGS. 20-23 is adjusted using acollet mechanism similar in design to the height adjusting mechanismsdescribed above with reference to FIGS. 12-17D. As with thoseembodiments, the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20-23 comprises acollet 2220 that mates within one of a plurality of circumferentialgrooves on an inner surface of the upper support 320. When the collet2220 is locked in place in one of these grooves, the height of theadjustable heights the post is set. However, unlike the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 12, the collet 2220 of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 18200 desirably also interacts with the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism 18400 to enable movement or angle adjustment of the saddle.Specifically, as described in more detail below, an actuating extension2302 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 contacts the collet2220 when the upper support 320 is in a lowered position. When theactuating extension 2302 contacts the collet 2220, the actuatingextension 2302 translates upward, opening a one-way hydraulic fluid flowpath that enables the saddle to change angle (in this case, to rotatebackwards). Further, when the upper support 320 moves upward to a raisedposition, the actuating extension 2302 translates back downwardswitching the hydraulic fluid flow path to enable the saddle to rotatein an opposite direction. Although in this embodiment the collet 2220contacts the actuating extension 2302 to enable rotation of the saddle105, in other embodiments the actuating extension 2302 may be configuredto contact a different portion of the saddle post, a part of the bicycleor bicycle frame that is not part of the saddle post, and/or the like.Further details of the operation of the hydraulic mechanism are givenbelow with reference to FIGS. 24-31.

The height of the adjustable height seat post can be adjusted similarlyto the adjustable height seat post illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13.Namely, a collet 2220 is configured to mate with a plurality of grooveson an interior surface of the upper support 320. For example, as can beseen in FIG. 23, the upper support 320 comprises a top circumferentialgroove 2340, a plurality of middle grooves 2344, and a bottom groove2342. In the configuration shown in FIG. 23, the adjustable height seatpost is shown in a raised position, with the collet 2220 beingpositioned in the bottom groove 2342. With the collet positioned in agroove, a collet positioning mechanism 2222 keeps the collet fromcollapsing and maintains the relative position of the upper support 320with respect to the lower support 310. When a collet actuating mechanism2102 is operated, for example, by pulling a control cable, the colletactuating mechanism 2102 applies a tension force to the cable 2224,which translates the collet positioning mechanism 2222, which thentranslates relative to the collet 2220, enabling the collet 2220 tocollapse. When the collet 2220 is collapsed, the upper support 320 isable to translate or slide relative to the lower support 310. The uppersupport 320 can then be locked into another position by positioning thecollet 2220 in another one of the circumferential grooves 2340 or 2344.

As shown in FIG. 22, a collet actuating mechanism 2102 and a cable guide2014 is disposed at a bottom of the lower support 310. The cable guide2014 is configured to route a control actuation cable from the saddlepost to, for example, enable the cable to be run to a controller 301located at, for example, handlebars of the bicycle. The cable can beused to actuate the collet actuating mechanism 2102 which in turn pullson a cable 2224, which translates a collet positioning mechanism 2222,as described above. Although in this embodiment the cable 2224 ispreferably routed to a bottom of the saddle post and actuated by amechanism disposed on the bottom of the saddle post, in various otherembodiments the cable 2224 may be routed to a different location and/oractuated by a mechanism located at a different location. For example,any of the cable and actuation methods described above, for example withreference to FIGS. 12-17D, may be utilized.

With further reference to FIG. 22, the adjustable height saddle postfurther comprises two alignment keys 2218 to keep the upper support 320from rotating relative to the lower support 310. The adjustable heightsaddle post also comprises collet mechanism mounting hardware 2228 and acable return spring 2229. The cable return spring 2229 is used to returnthe collet actuating mechanism 2102 to its upward or home positionafter, for example, a rider releases the control 301. The colletmechanism mounting hardware 2228 is used to mount the collet actuatingmechanism 2102 and locate that mechanism with respect to lower support310. The collet mechanism mounting hardware 2228 in some embodiments mayinclude various seals to keep the elements out of an interior of thedevice. The adjustable height saddle post further comprises a colletsupport post 2226 configured to support and position the collet 2220 andcollet positioning mechanism 2222.

The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 comprises a saddle receiver19510 attached to a rotating arm 2002. The rotating arm 2002 rotatesabout a pivot bolt 2004 coupled to a mounting collar 2006. By rotatingabout the pivot bolt 2004, the rotating arm 2002 enables the bicycleseat to tilt forward and backward about an axis of rotation defined bythe pivot bolt 2004. Although in this embodiment the axis of rotation isdefined by a pivot bolt, various other mechanical methods maybe used todefine the axis of rotation. The ability of the arm 2002 to rotate isdesirably limited by an actuating member 2008 protruding from the uppersupport 320 and coupled to the arm 2002. The actuating member 2008 isconnected to a piston rod 2202 that can be seen in FIGS. 22 and 23. Thepiston rod 2202 is part of a hydraulic system that enables the actuatingmember 2008 to be locked in certain positions and/or to be configured tomove in only one direction.

In this embodiment, the rotating arm 2002 is rotatably coupled to amounting collar 2006 which is in turn coupled to the upper support 320.The collar 2006 may include a spacing arm 2106 (shown in FIG. 21) orsimilar spacing member to space the axis of rotation of the pivot bolt2004 upward and further forward from an axis of the upper support 320.In other embodiments, the rotating arm 2002 may be rotatably attacheddirectly to the upper support 320 or even rotatably attached directly tothe bicycle frame 110.

As with various other embodiments, the assembly illustrated in FIGS.20-23 is configured to enable the saddle receiver 19510 to rotate, anddesirably to rotate in a single direction, when the upper support 320drops to a lowered position with respect to the lower support 310. FIGS.20-23 illustrate the saddle receiver 19510 in a raised position. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 18A, the raised position may put thesaddle 105 in a level position with respect to a ground plane. However,when the upper support 320 drops to a lowered position, the actuationextension 2302 of the outer body or sleeve 2206 illustrated in FIG. 23contacts an upper surface of the collet 2220, causing the hydraulicassembly of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism to enable the pistonrod 2202 to drop with respect to the upper support 320. When the pistonrod 2202 drops, the rotating arm 2002 also drops (rotating the saddlebackwards), because the rotating arm 2002 is attached to the actuatingmember 2008 using bolt 2010, the actuating member 2008 being attached tothe piston rod 2202. Accordingly, the saddle receiver 19510 is able todrop to a lowered position, such as is shown in FIG. 18B.

With further reference to FIGS. 22 and 23, the hydraulic portion of thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism in this embodiment further comprises aspring 2012 configured to bias the rotating arm 2002 in an upwardposition. The spring 2012 surrounds the piston rod 2202 and ispositioned underneath the actuating member 2008 to bias it upward in anaxial direction. For example, when the system is actuated at a loweredposition to enable the rotating arm 2002 to drop to a lowered position,a rider's body weight may overcome the force of the spring 2012 andcause the saddle receiver 19510 to lower. However, when the uppersupport 320 moves upward to a raised position, and the rider takes hisor her body weight off of the saddle 105, the spring 2012 can be used toautomatically return the saddle 105 to its upper or forward position, asshown in FIG. 18A. The spring 2012 in some embodiments may alternativelybe another type of stored energy device such as a rotational spring, anair spring, a resilient material, and/or the like.

The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 further comprises an innerbody or sleeve 2204 comprising a plurality of orifices (e.g., holes,openings, slits, outlets, inlets, fluid passages) 2205. The inner sleeve2204 in this embodiment comprises a support engaging portion that iscoupled to the upper support 320. The inner sleeve 2204 fits at leastpartially within the outer sleeve 2206. A plurality of O-rings 2208 arepositioned within grooves of the outer sleeve 2206 to create a pluralityof isolated cavities between the inner sleeve 2204 and outer sleeve2206. The interaction of these cavities can enable the hydraulicoperation of this mechanism, as is further described below. Thehydraulic mechanism further comprises a seal 2212 and O-ring 2214positioned at a top of the inner sleeve 2204 to, for example, keephydraulic fluid within the sleeve and/or to keep dust and othercontaminates out of the mechanism. The hydraulic mechanism furthercomprises shims 2216 and a spring 2210 described in greater detailbelow.

FIGS. 24-31 illustrate cross sectional views of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 18400 of FIGS. 18A-23 in various stages ofactuation. The sequence begins with FIGS. 24 and 25, where the saddlereceiver 19510 is in a fully upward or tilted forward position (relativethe seat post axis, and desirably horizontal relative the groundsurface; e.g., the first rotational position), and the saddle post is ina raised position, such as is shown in FIG. 18A. The sequence proceedsto FIG. 26, where the saddle post has been lowered to a loweredposition. Next, FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate the saddle receiver 19510 ina lowered or tilted backward position (relative the seat post axis, anddesirably the horizontal ground surface; e.g., the second rotationalposition), such as is shown in FIG. 18B. Finally, FIGS. 29 through 31illustrate the saddle receiver 19510 returning to an upward or tiltedforward position, as is shown in FIG. 18A.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate the saddle receiver 19510 in its upwardposition with the upper support 320 in a raised position. The hydraulicportion of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises two pistons2502, 2504 and two chambers 2402, 2404. As can be seen in FIGS. 24 and25, the hydraulic mechanism comprises a top chamber 2402 having a toppiston 2502 and a bottom chamber 2404 having a bottom piston 2504. Inthe illustrated configuration (e.g., with the saddle and saddle post inraised positions), the top chamber 2402 is as large as it can be and thebottom chamber 2404 is as small as it can be. The pistons are locked inan upward position with the bottom piston 2504 being positioned againsta stop surface 2530 to stop the piston rod 2202 from moving any furtherin the upward direction. The piston rod 2202 is prevented from movingany further in a downward direction by a series of one-way valves, whichdesirably comprise a variety of shims and orifices which preventhydraulic fluid in the top chamber 2402 from moving to the bottomchamber 2404.

With reference to FIG. 25, the top chamber 2402 comprises a top orifice2520, and the bottom chamber 2404 comprises a bottom orifice 2524. Theinner sleeve 2204 further comprises a middle orifice 2522 leading to apassage 2420 between the top and bottom chambers 2402, 2404. The passage2420 is sealed off from the top chamber 2402 and bottom chamber 2404 bya top shim 2416 and a bottom shim 2418. The shims act as one-way valves,wherein hydraulic fluid can pass from the passage 2420 to either the topchamber 2402 or the bottom chamber 2404, but the hydraulic fluid cannotpass back into the passage 2420 past the shims. It should be noted that,although shims are used in this design as one-way valves, various othermechanisms for preventing fluid flow in one direction but enabling fluidflow in another direction can be utilized. Further, although thedescriptions with respect to FIGS. 24-31 describe fluid flow withrespect to a single top, middle and bottom orifice, there are aplurality of orifices extending around the inner sleeve 2204 in theillustrated embodiment. The cross-section of these figures is merelytaken through one set of those orifices, and the description is providedwith respect to one set of the orifices, for simplicity.

With further reference to FIG. 25, when the saddle receiver 19510 is inthe upper or raised position and the actuation extension 2302, and morespecifically the actuation surface 2430 of the actuation extension 2302,has not contacted a mating actuation surface of the collet, thehydraulic fluid within the top chamber 2402 prevents the piston rod 2202from dropping into a lower position. Hydraulic fluid is indicated byshading in FIGS. 25-31. As can be seen in FIG. 25, hydraulic fluid inthe top chamber 2402 cannot enter the passage 2420, because the top shim2416 prevents the fluid from moving into the passage 2420. Further,although hydraulic fluid can exit the top chamber 2402 through the toporifice 2520, the top two O-rings 2208 of the outer sleeve 2206 preventthat hydraulic fluid from moving beyond either of those O rings 2208.Accordingly, the piston rod 2202 is locked in the raised position.

FIG. 26 illustrates the start of a movement of the saddle receiver 19510to a lowered position. In this case, the upper support 320 has droppedto a lowered position within the lower support 310. The actuationsurface 2430 of the outer sleeve 2206 has contacted a mating surface ofthe collet 2220. This has caused the outer sleeve 2206 to translateupward with respect to the inner sleeve 2204. In translating upward, thespring 2210 has been compressed. Compressing the spring 2210 can enablethe outer sleeve 2206 to automatically return to its lower or homeposition when the upper support 320 goes into a raised position withrespect to the lower support 310.

As can be seen in FIG. 26, by raising the outer sleeve 2206, the O-rings2208 have changed position with respect to the plurality of orifices. Inparticular, the top two O-rings 2208 have been raised above the toporifice 2520, and enabled fluid to flow out the top orifice 2520 and inthrough the middle orifice 2522, which enables the fluid to pass beyondthe lower shim 2418 and into the bottom chamber 2404. Accordingly, thepiston rod 2202 is no longer locked in an upper or raised position. Ifforce is applied to the rod 2202 in a downward direction, as long as theforce exceeds the force of the spring 2012, the actuation rod will movedownward, transferring hydraulic fluid from the top chamber 2402 to thebottom chamber 2404 as it moves. FIG. 27 illustrates such a movementwhere the saddle receiver 19510 has been moved to the lowered positionand hydraulic fluid from the top chamber 2402 has been moved into thebottom chamber 2404. In this case, at the lowered position, the pistonrod 2202 is now locked in the lowered position. The actuation rod cannotmove any lower, because the top piston 2502 is mated against a top stopsurface 2730. Further, the piston rod 2202 cannot move back upward,because fluid cannot flow out of the bottom chamber 2404. The fluidcannot flow back past the bottom shim 2418, because the shim acts as aone way valve. Further, although the fluid can flow out of the bottomorifice 2524, the fluid cannot flow beyond the bottom two O rings 2208,effectively locking the pistons in the downward position.

In some embodiments, the amount of translation upward required by theouter sleeve 2206 to open the fluid flow paths enabling the piston rod2202 to move downward is about 5 millimeters. In other embodiments, theamount of translation upward required by the outer sleeve 2206 to openthe fluid flow paths enabling the piston rod 2202 to move downward isabout 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or20 millimeters.

It should be noted that the hydraulic assembly disclosed herein iscapable of not only locking the pistons in the fully upward or fullydownward position, but also enabling only one way motion. For example,in the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27, where the outersleeve 2206 is in a raised position, the pistons are able to movedownward but not upward. Accordingly, if the saddle receiver 19510 werepushed downward only a portion of the way instead of all the way to abottom position, the spring 2012 would not be able to raise the rotatingarm 2002 back to the upward position, because hydraulic fluid cannotflow back from the bottom chamber 2404 into the top chamber 2402.Accordingly, the saddle receiver 19510 would remain in this partway downposition until either it is pushed further down or the outer sleeve 2206is dropped into a lower position as will be discussed in further detailbelow. Likewise, as is discussed below, when the piston rod 2202 ismoving back upward and the outer sleeve 2206 is in a lowered position,the hydraulic system prevents the piston rod 2202 from being able tomove downward until the outer sleeve 2206 is again raised into an upperposition.

FIG. 28 is a further illustration of the hydraulic fluid flow path whenthe rotating arm 2002 is rotating downward to put the saddle receiver19510 in a lowered or tilted backward position. Fluid starts in the topchamber 2402, flows out the top orifice 2520, down in the gap betweenthe inner sleeve 2204 and the outer sleeve 2206, into the passage 2420through the middle orifice 2522, down past the lower shim 2418, and intothe bottom chamber 2404. As discussed above, the hydraulic fluid willthen remain in the bottom chamber 2404 until the outer sleeve 2206 dropsinto a lowered position.

FIGS. 29-31 illustrate a return of the saddle receiver 19510 to itsupward or tilted forward position. This movement starts by the actuationextension 2302 and outer sleeve 2206 dropping back down into its loweredposition. For example, the upper support 320 may be raised to a raisedposition with respect to the lower support 310. This will enable thespring 2210 to force the outer sleeve 2206 back down with respect to theinner sleeve 2204. The spring 2210 moves the outer sleeve 2206 downuntil it stops when it hits the tapered wall 2902 on the interior of theupper support 320. Although in this embodiment, the downward motion ofthe outer sleeve 2206 is constrained by mating with a tapered wall 2902,various other mechanical means may be used to constrain the downwardmotion of the outer sleeve 2206. For example, the upper support 320 mayinclude a shelf or step that mates with a mating surface of the outersleeve 2206. In another example, the outer sleeve 2206 may hit a pin orstep or other feature of the inner sleeve 2204, enabling a feature ofthe inner sleeve 2204 to restrain the downward motion, instead of afeature of the upper support 320. Similarly, although in this embodimentthe actuation surface 2430 contacts the collet 2220 to move the outersleeve 2206 upward, various other embodiments may use various othermethods of moving the outer sleeve 2206 upward. For example, a surfaceof the outer sleeve 2206 may contact a mating surface of the lowersupport 310. In another embodiment, the outer sleeve 2206 may be cableactuated, such as by a manual control.

When the outer sleeve 2206 has dropped to its lowered position, theO-rings 2208 are positioned such that the bottom orifice 2524 canfluidly communicate with the middle orifice 2522. Accordingly, as shownin FIG. 30, hydraulic fluid can pass from the bottom chamber 2404 outthe bottom orifice 2524, through the space between the inner and outersleeves, into the middle orifice 2522, through the passage 2420, andpast the top shim 2416 into the top chamber 2402. Accordingly, as shownin FIG. 30, the pistons and actuating rod can move upward within theinner sleeve 2204, enabling the rotating arm 2002 and saddle receiver19510 to return to the top raised or tilted forward position. Althoughthe embodiment shown in FIGS. 24-31 desirably comprises a plurality ofO-rings 2208 having round cross-sectional shapes to form seals betweenthe outer and inner sleeves, in other embodiments, other sealing meansmay be used to accomplish the functions described herein. For example,an embodiment may utilize custom-molded rubber or polymer seals, O-ringshaving cross-sectional shapes other than round, and/or the like.

One advantage of a hydraulic saddle angle adjustment mechanism is thatthe hydraulic mechanism also incorporates damping features to damp theupward and downward motion of the pistons which in turn damps therotation of the saddle. The amount of dampening can be adjusted throughvarious means, such as, for example, adjusting orifice size, changingthe number of orifices, selecting a different type of one way valve,adjusting a stiffness of the shims used for the one way valves in thecurrent embodiment, using a different viscosity fluid, using a pressurevalve which opens under a higher pressure, etc. In an embodiment thatuses a pressure valve that opens under a higher pressure, this canenable variable dampening. For example, if a high load is placed on thesaddle, this pressure valve may open decreasing the dampening andenabling the saddle to tilt faster. However, if a lighter load is on thesaddle, the pressure valve may not open, enabling increased dampeningand a slower rotation of the saddle. Further, damping may be differentin different directions. For example, a rider may wish there to be verylittle damping when rotating the saddle backward, but for there to bemore damping when returning the saddle to its forward position. This mayhelp to avoid injuring a rider by keeping the saddle from “snapping”forward.

Another advantage of the hydraulic system disclosed herein is theinherent one way motion. For example, in a situation where a bicyclerider wants to lower his or her seat post and tilt the saddle back, therider may be in, for example, a bumpy downhill riding situation.Accordingly, the rider may operate a control to lower the seat post, andmay begin to tilt the saddle back under his or her body weight. However,the rider may ride across a bump or void that causes the rider's bodyweight to be shifted upward and off of the saddle while the rider is inthe process of tilting the saddle backward. If the one way functionalityof the saddle rotation mechanism were not present, the spring 2012 mayact to tilt the seat back up before the seat has been tilted all the wayto its backward position. However, with this embodiment and otherembodiments incorporating one way motion, the saddle will remain in itspartially tilted position until either the rider places his or her bodyweight back on the saddle to continue the downward rotation or the seatpost raises causing the hydraulic mechanism to unlock and release thesaddle to move back to its upward or forward position.

Electrical Control Systems

FIG. 32 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a bicycle 3200comprising a schematic representation of an electronic control systemfor monitoring and/or controlling a saddle angle. The bicycle 3200 issimilar to the embodiment of a bicycle 100 illustrated in FIG. 18A.However, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 32, various controlsystem features are added to the bicycle 3200. The control systemfeatures illustrated in FIG. 32 are depicted as boxes connected to thebicycle 3200. In various embodiments, one or more components may beattached to or integrated into, for example, the frame 110, saddle 105,saddle post 300, and/or the like.

The bicycle 3200 comprises various features similar to other bicyclesdisclosed herein, shown by using the same reference numbers, in additionto comprising various control system components, described as follows.The bicycle 3200 comprises a saddle angle adjustment assembly 32200comprising a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 32400 configured toenable adjustment of an angle of the saddle 105. The bicycle 3200further comprises a saddle post position sensor 3202, a rider presencesensor 3204, a saddle angle sensor 3206, a frame orientation sensor3208, a controller 3210, a saddle angle actuator 3232, and a powersource 3212. In operation, the power source 3212 can be electricallyconnected to the controller 3210 and the various sensors and actuatorsto enable dynamic monitoring of a saddle post height, monitoring of asaddle angle, monitoring of a rider presence on the saddle, controllingof the saddle angle, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, the controller 3210 can be configured tocommunicate with one or more sensors as inputs to determine, among otherthings, whether the saddle 105 is in an appropriate position or anglefor a current operating condition of the bicycle 3200. For example, thecontroller 3210 can be configured to communicate with the saddle postposition sensor 3202 to determine a current position of the saddle postand to ensure the saddle is at an appropriate angle for the currentsaddle post position. In some embodiments, the saddle post positionsensor 3202 may comprise a continuous sensor that outputs a voltage thatis relative to the current position of the saddle post. For example, inone embodiment, the saddle post position sensor may present a minimumvoltage when the saddle post is at a minimum height, and a maximumvoltage when the saddle post is at a maximum height, or vice versa. Inother embodiments, the bicycle 3200 may comprise one or more saddle postposition sensors 3202 comprising a switch or limit switch. For example,one saddle post position sensor may indicate in a binary fashion (e.g.,the sensor comprises a switch having an opened and a closedconfiguration) when the saddle post is at a minimum or retractedposition. Another saddle post position sensor may be configured toindicate when the saddle post is at an upper or extended position. Insome embodiments, the one or more saddle post position sensors 3202 areintegrated into the saddle post. It should be clear to one of skill inthe art that various other sensing means may be used to determine anabsolute or relative position of the saddle post.

In some embodiments, the controller 3210 can be configured tocommunicate with the rider presence sensor 3204, which is configured todetect or aid in detection of whether a rider is present on the saddle105. This can be advantageous to enable, in some embodiments, thebicycle 3200 to be configured to not begin rotating the saddle 105(and/or to not unlock the saddle 105) until a rider has disengaged fromthe saddle, or at least removed a portion of his or her weight from thesaddle 105. Such a design can be beneficial to, among other things, savepower by limiting the saddle 105 from moving while the rider is still onthe saddle, save power by not causing a saddle locking mechanism toactivate or deactivate while the rider is present on the saddle, and bykeeping the saddle from moving when the rider may not expect it to move.In some embodiments, the rider presence sensor 3204 is a binary switchconfigured to switch when a predetermined amount of weight or force isplaced on the saddle 105. In other embodiments, the rider presencesensor 3204 comprises a load cell or similar device configured to enablethe controller 3210 to determine an absolute or relative weight or forcecurrently being placed on the saddle 105. The rider presence sensor maybe coupled to or incorporated into the saddle 105, saddle angleadjustment assembly 32200, saddle post 300, frame 110, and/or the like.

The controller 3210 in some embodiments can be configured to communicatewith the saddle angle sensor 3206, which may be configured to determinea relative or absolute angle or position of the saddle 105, for examplewith respect to the saddle post. As with the saddle post position sensor3202, the saddle angle sensor 3206 may comprise various forms. Forexample, the saddle angle sensor 3206 may be a continuous sensor thatenables detection of an absolute or relative angle or position of thesaddle 105 throughout its entire or at least a portion of the saddle105's range of rotation. In other embodiments, one or more saddle anglesensors 3206 may comprise limit switches that indicate to the controller3210 when the saddle 105 is in a particular position. For example, onesaddle angle sensor 3206 may activate when the saddle 105 is in a fullyforward position, while another saddle angle sensor 3206 may activatewhen the saddle 105 is in a fully back position. One or more saddleangle sensors may be coupled to or integrated into the saddle 105 orsaddle angle adjustment assembly 32200.

The controller 3210 can further be configured to communicate with theframe orientation sensor 3208, which may be configured to determine apresent orientation of the bicycle frame 110 with respect to, forexample, terrain over which the bicycle is riding. For example, theframe orientation sensor 3208 may comprise an accelerometer, agyroscope, and/or the like that can output a signal to indicate to thecontroller 3210 a current absolute or relative inclination in one ormore axes of the bicycle frame 110. One or more frame orientationsensors may be coupled to or incorporated into the frame 110, saddleangle adjustment assembly 32200, saddle post 300, and/or the like.

The controller 3210 can be configured to communicate with or receiveinformation from one or more of the various sensors in order todetermine whether the saddle 105 is currently at an appropriate ordesired angle and/or whether the saddle 105 should be rotated. When thecontroller 3210 determines that the saddle 105 should be rotated, suchas, because the saddle is not currently at an appropriate or desiredangle, the controller 3210 can be configured to communicate with thesaddle angle actuator 3232 to enable rotation of the saddle 105. In someembodiments, the saddle angle actuator 3232 electronically unlocks thesaddle 105, enabling the user to then manually rotate the saddle 105. Inother embodiments, the saddle angle actuator 3232 and/or anothercomponent(s) actively rotates the saddle 105 under electrical power,hydraulic power, pneumatic power, and/or the like. Various embodimentsof powered saddle angle actuators are described below with reference toFIGS. 37-39B.

The power source 3212 can comprise a battery or batteries, a generatorconnected to, for example, a wheel of the bicycle to generateelectricity, a solar-powered source, and/or various other devicescapable of providing power to a moving bicycle.

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of a block diagram illustrating anexample saddle angle control system. The embodiment illustrated in FIG.33 comprises a power source 3312, a controller 3310, a plurality ofsensors 3301, and a plurality of actuators 3330. The controller 3310comprises a control parameters database 3316, an input/output interface3314, a computer processor 3320, and electronic memory 3318. Thecontroller 3310 can be configured to communicate with the sensors 3301and the actuators 3330 to, among other things, control orientation orposition of a bicycle saddle. The control parameters database 3316 canbe configured to store various configuration parameters, such asparameters that indicate the desired saddle angle based on a currentstate of one or more sensors. For example, one parameter that may bestored in the control parameters database 3316 may indicate that thesaddle should be rotated to a back or down position when a frameorientation sensor indicates the bicycle frame is at or exceeding aparticular inclination. The input/output interface 3314 can beconfigured to communicate with the sensors 3301 and actuators 3330through, for example, a serial interface, a parallel interface, acomputer network, a bus, wireless communications, and/or the like. Insome embodiments, the input/output interface 3314 enables a user toprogram the system, such as by adjusting parameters stored in thecontrol parameters database 3316.

The sensors 3301 comprise a saddle angle sensor 3306, a saddle postposition sensor 3302, a frame orientation sensor 3308, and a riderpresence sensor 3304, for example, as depicted in FIG. 32. In otherembodiments, the sensors 3301 may comprise more or fewer sensors. Theactuators 3330 comprise a saddle angle actuator 3332, for example, asdepicted in FIG. 32. The actuators 3330 in some embodiments furthercomprise a saddle angle lock 3336, which may comprise, for example, alocking device, such as the locking device 3908 shown in FIG. 39A. Insome embodiments, the saddle angle lock 3336 can be integrated into thesaddle angle actuator 3332, as shown in FIG. 32. The saddle angle lock3336 can be configured to, for example, lock the bicycle saddle in aparticular orientation. In some embodiments, the saddle angle lock 3336does not require maintaining electrical power to the saddle angle lock3336 to maintain the saddle in a particular position. In otherembodiments, the saddle angle lock 3336 requires power to maintain thesaddle in a particular position. Some embodiments comprise more or feweractuators. For example, some embodiments comprise the saddle angleactuator 3332, but no saddle angle lock 3336. In some embodiments, thesaddle angle actuator 3332 is self-locking. For example, the saddleangle actuator 3332 may comprise a non-backdrivable lead screw. In someembodiments, a saddle angle lock is integrated into the saddle angleactuator.

Saddle Angle Control Processes

FIGS. 34A-34E depict various embodiments of process flow diagramsillustrating example processes of controlling a saddle angle. FIG. 34Adepicts an embodiment of a process flow diagram illustrating an exampleprocess of electronically controlling a saddle angle based on a manualinput. For example, the process flow illustrated in FIG. 34A may depictan example of a rider operating a control located on a handlebar orelsewhere on a bicycle frame to manually cause a saddle angle actuatorto rotate a saddle forward or backward.

The process flow begins at block 3402. At block 3404, a rider activatesa handlebar control, such as the control 301 depicted in FIG. 32. Atblock 3406, the saddle optionally unlocks. The unlocking block isoptional in this and other embodiments because, in some embodiments, alock is not utilized. For example, in some embodiments, the saddleremains at a particular angle without requiring a lock (e.g., the saddleangle actuator is self-locking). At block 3408 the saddle rotates. Forexample, at block 3408, the controller 3210 may communicate with thesaddle angle actuator 3232 to cause powered rotation of the saddle, suchas by using a motor, to rotate the saddle. At block 3410, the processflow varies depending on whether the control is still activated by therider. If the control is still activated by the rider, the process flowproceeds back to block 3408 and the saddle continues rotating. If thecontrol is not still activated at block 3410, the process flow proceedsto block 3412. At block 3412, the saddle locks, if the saddle wasunlocked at block 3406. The process completes at block 3414. In someembodiments, the controller 3210 is configured to automatically stoprotation of the saddle even if the control is still activated, if thesaddle reaches a predetermined position, based on an input from a saddleangle sensor.

FIG. 34B illustrates another embodiment of a process flow diagramdepicting an example of powered rotation of a saddle. The embodimentillustrated in FIG. 34B is similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG.34A, in that this process flow is started by a rider activating acontrol. However, in FIG. 34A, the saddle merely rotated until the riderreleased the control. In this embodiment, activation of the control isan indication to the controller that the saddle should rotate to aparticular angle. The controller then operates a saddle angle actuatorto move the saddle to a predetermined angle, without requiring the riderto maintain activation of the control.

The process flow starts at block 3422. At block 3424, a rider activatesa control at the handlebar or otherwise located on the bicycle. At block3426, the saddle optionally unlocks. At block 3428, the saddle beginsrotating, such as an electronic saddle angle actuator. At block 3430,the process flow varies depending on whether the saddle has rotated tothe desired angle. To accomplish this process, the controller may beconfigured to consult the control parameters database shown at block3432 to determine what the desired angle is based on the control inputreceived by the rider. If the saddle is not yet at the desired angle,the process flow proceeds back to block 3428. If the saddle is at thedesired angle, the process flow proceeds to block 3434 where the saddleoptionally relocks. With the saddle at the desired angle, the processflow ends at block 3436.

FIG. 34C depicts an embodiment of a process flow diagram illustrating anexample of controlling saddle angle based on a saddle post position. Forexample, the process flow illustrated in FIG. 34C may be useful toenable a controller to automatically rotate a saddle backward when asaddle post is moved or is moving to a lowered position. Further, thesystem may be configured to automatically rotate the saddle forward whenthe saddle post is raised or is rising from the lowered position.

The process flow begins at block 3442. At block 3444 the controllerchecks the position of the saddle post. For example, the controller 3210of FIG. 32 may communicate with the saddle post position sensor 3202 todetermine a current position of the saddle post. In some embodiments,the controller may determine an absolute or relative current position ofthe saddle post. In other embodiments, the controller may determine thatthe saddle post is or is not at a particular predetermined position,such as would be indicated by a limit switch. At block 3446, thecontroller checks the saddle angle, such as by communicating with thesaddle angle sensor 3206. As with the saddle post position, the saddleangle may be determined absolutely or relatively, and/or checking thesaddle angle may comprise checking whether the saddle is at a particularpredetermined position, such as by indicated by a limit switch.

At block 3448, the process flow varies depending on whether the saddleis at a desired angle. For example, the controller may be configured toconsult the control parameters database shown at block 3450 todetermine, based on the current position of the saddle post, what thecurrently desired saddle angle is. The controller can be configured tothen compare that desired saddle angle to the current saddle angledetermined at block 3446. If the saddle is already at the desired angle,the process flow proceeds back to block 3444 and the above processrepeats. If, at block 3448, the saddle is not at the desired angle, theprocess flow proceeds to block 3452. At block 3452, the saddleoptionally unlocks, such as if the system requires unlocking of thesaddle before rotating the saddle. At block 3454, the saddle rotates tothe desired angle, such as by the controller communicating with thesaddle angle actuator 3232 to cause powered rotation of the saddle. Atblock 3456, the saddle optionally relocks. The process flow thenproceeds back to block 3444 and proceeds as described above.

FIG. 34D depicts another embodiment of a process flow diagramillustrating an example process of rotating a saddle based on one ormore current conditions of the bicycle. The process flow illustrated inFIG. 34D is similar to the process flow illustrated in FIG. 34C, in thatrotation of the saddle to a desired angle is based at least in part on acurrent position of the saddle post. However, the process flowillustrated in FIG. 34D adds a check of whether the rider is currentlypresent on the saddle. The process flow, in some embodiments, onlybegins rotation of the saddle when the rider has disengaged from thesaddle.

The process flow starts at block 3462. At block 3464, the controllerchecks the current position of the saddle post. For example, thecontroller 3210 can be configured to communicate with the saddle postposition sensor 3202 to determine a current position of the saddle post.At block 3466, the controller checks the saddle angle. For example, thecontroller 3210 can be configured to communicate with the saddle anglesensor 3206 to determine a current angle of the saddle. At block 3468,the process flow varies depending on whether the saddle is at a desiredangle. For example, the controller 3210 can be configured to consult thecontrol parameters database illustrated at block 3470 to determine adesired angle of the saddle based on the current position of the saddlepost. If the saddle is currently at the desired angle, the process flowproceeds back to block 3464 and proceeds as described above.

If the saddle angle is not at the desired angle at block 3468, theprocess flow proceeds to block 3472. At block 3472, the controllerchecks for the rider's presence on the saddle. For example, thecontroller 3210 can be configured to communicate with the rider presencesensor 3204 to determine whether the rider is present and/or whether aparticular predefined level of force or weight is currently applied tothe saddle. At block 3474, the process flow varies depending on whetherthe rider is currently present on the saddle. If the rider is currentlypresent on the saddle, the process flow proceeds back to block 3464without rotating the saddle and proceeds as described above. If therider is not present on the saddle at block 3474, the process flowproceeds to block 3476. At block 3476, the saddle optionally unlocks, ifneeded. At block 3478, the saddle rotates to the desired angle. Forexample, the controller 3210 can be configured to communicate with thesaddle angle actuator 3232 to cause powered rotation of the saddle torotate the saddle to the desired angle. At block 3480, the saddleoptionally locks, if needed, and the process flow then proceeds back toblock 3464.

FIG. 34E depicts an embodiment of a process flow diagram illustrating anexample of rotating a saddle based on a current orientation of a bicycleframe. The process flow begins at block 3482. At block 3484, thecontroller checks the current orientation of the bicycle frame. Forexample, the controller 3210 can be configured to communicate with theframe orientation sensor 3208 to determine a current orientation of thebicycle frame with reference to a riding environment. At block 3486, thecontroller checks the current angle of the saddle with respect to thesaddle post. For example, the controller 3210 can be configured tocommunicate with the saddle angle sensor 3206 to determine the currentsaddle angle. At block 3488, the process flow varies depending onwhether the saddle is currently at the desired angle based on thecurrent frame orientation. For example, the controller 3210 can beconfigured to consult the control parameters database illustrated atblock 3490 to determine what the desired angle of the saddle is at thepresent frame orientation. If the saddle is at the presently desiredangle, the process flow proceeds back to block 3484 and proceeds asdescribed above.

If the saddle is not at the desired angle at block 3488, the processflow proceeds to block 3492. At block 3492, the saddle optionallyunlocks, if needed. At block 3494, the saddle rotates to the desiredangle. At block 3496, the saddle optionally relocks. The process flowthen proceeds back to block 3484 and proceeds and described above.

The various process flow diagram embodiments illustrated in FIGS.34A-34E depict examples of how one or more sensors may be used to, incooperation with a controller and actuator, control a current saddleangle. The various examples illustrated in these embodiments may becombined, in some embodiments, into more complicated control algorithms.For example, in some embodiments, the controller 3210 may be configuredto utilize all of the features of these various process flow diagramsand/or some of the features of some of these process flow diagrams. Forexample, in one embodiment, the controller may be configured toautomatically rotate a saddle based on frame orientation, such as isillustrated in FIG. 34E. However, the controller may also be configuredto not begin the saddle rotation until the rider has unweighted thesaddle as shown in FIG. 34D, and may also have an option of enabling thesaddle to be manually rotated, as is shown in FIGS. 34A and 34B.

Dual-Position Saddle

FIGS. 35A-35E depict another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustmentassembly 35200 configured to enable a saddle of a bicycle to rotatebetween a first and second, or forward and back configuration. FIG. 35Adepicts a side view of the saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 in anextended or, in this embodiment, fully upward configuration. FIGS. 35Band 35C illustrate cross-sectional views of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 35200 in the extended or fully upward configuration. FIG. 35Dillustrates a side view of the saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 ina retracted or, in this embodiment, fully downward configuration. FIG.35E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 35200 in the retracted configuration or fully downwardconfiguration.

The saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 is externally relativelysimilar to the saddle angle adjustment assembly 18200 described above,with like reference numbers used for like components. However, there areseveral differences in the design of the saddle angle adjustmentassembly 35200. The saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 illustratesan embodiment wherein an adjustable height saddle post can be activatedto lower a height of the saddle post, and the saddle may be capable ofimmediately moving to the fully rearward or backward positionimmediately as soon as the adjustable height saddle post is unlocked.Similarly, the saddle may be capable of immediately moving to the fullyforward position, as soon as the saddle post is unlocked in the loweredposition. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment assembly35200 is configured to be fully constrained at the fully upward andfully downward positions, but not fully constrained in other positions.

The saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 comprises a lower support 310slidably coupled with an upper support 320. Coupled to the upper support320 is a collar 2006 with a pivotally attached rotating arm 2002 atpivot point 2004. The rotating arm 2002 is coupled to a saddle receiver19510, similar to the saddle receiver 19510 described above. The saddleangle adjustment assembly 35200 further comprises a relative movementsupport, in this embodiment an inner support 3520 slidably coupled withthe upper support 320. The inner support 3520 is rotatably coupled tothe rotating arm 2002 to form a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 35400that enables the saddle receiver 19510 to rotate about the pivot 2004 toadjust an angle of the saddle when the inner support 3520 moves relativeto the upper support 320. In other embodiments, the relative movementsupport may be configured differently than the inner support 3520. Forexample, the relative movement support may in some embodiments bepositioned outside the upper support 320 instead of inside the uppersupport 320. In some embodiments, the relative movement support may beslidably coupled with the lower support 310 instead of the upper support320 or may be slidably coupled with both the lower support 310 and theupper support 320.

The saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200 in the present embodiment isfully constrained, meaning the movement of the saddle is fullyconstrained with respect to the bicycle frame, in only twoconfigurations. Namely, the saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200comprises a fully retracted, downward, or lowered configuration and afully extended, raised, or upward configuration, wherein the assembly isfully constrained in each of these two configurations. However, at anylocation between the fully extended and fully retracted configurations,the assembly is not fully constrained, and the saddle (and saddlereceiver 19510) may move, and, in particular the angle of the saddle maymove, relative to the bicycle frame. One advantage of this embodiment isthat is enables quick rotations of the saddle whenever the saddle postis not locked. In various other embodiments, more than two fullyconstrained configurations may be provided.

FIGS. 35B and 35C illustrate the mechanical constraints used to fullyconstrain the assembly in the fully extended position. In this case, thelower support 310 is configured to be rigidly or semi-rigidly affixed toa bicycle frame. The upper support 320 is positioned against an extendstop, in this embodiment dual extend stops 3506 comprising keys (asshown in FIG. 35C), which constrain the upper support 320 from movingany further in an extended direction with reference to the lower support310. The inner support 3520 is constrained from moving any further in anextended direction with reference to the upper support 320 by extendstop 3502. Extend stop 3502 (as shown in FIG. 35B) comprises matingsurfaces of the rotating arm 2002 and the collar 2006. Accordingly, theentire assembly is constrained from moving any further in the extenddirection. Further, a collet 2220 engaging a bottom circumferentialgroove 2342 of the inner support 3520 constrains the assembly frommoving in a retracted or lowered direction. Accordingly, the embodimentsillustrated in FIGS. 35B and 35C illustrate the saddle angle adjustment35200 in a fully constrained extended configuration.

FIGS. 35D and 35E illustrate the saddle angle adjustment assembly 35200in a fully constrained retracted configuration. In this case, the uppersupport 320 is positioned against a retract stop 3508, causing the uppersupport 320 to not be able to move any further in the retracteddirection with respect to the lower support 310. In this embodiment, theretract stop 3508 comprises two resilient members 3509 positioned behindit to, for example, help absorb a shock of the upper support 320impacting the retract stop 3508 when moving quickly to the retractedconfiguration. The inner support 3520 in this configuration isrestrained from moving any further in the retracted direction by retractstop 3504. In this case, a surface the rotating arm 2002 engages asurface of the collar 2006 to form the retract stop 3504. Finally, theassembly is constrained from moving in the extend direction by thecollet 2220 engaging the top circumferential groove 2340 of the innersupport 3520.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 35A-35E can be advantageous toenable quick and efficient translation of the saddle post and rotationof the saddle. For example, if a rider wishes to quickly rotate a saddlebackward, in some embodiments disclosed herein, the saddle post must beretracted or lowered to a particular predetermined position to enablebackward rotation of the saddle. However, in this embodiment, as soon asthe collet 2220 disengages the bottom groove 2342, the saddle is free torotate completely to the rearward or backward position, enabling quickrotation of the saddle, even before the saddle post has begun retractingor begun any significant retracting.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 35A-35E illustrate one embodiment ofa two position adjustable saddle assembly comprising a variety of stopsurfaces that enable fully constraining the components in an extended orretracted configuration. However, in other embodiments, various otherstop configurations may be used, as long as they fully constrain theassembly in the extend and retract configurations. One example of analternate embodiment of stop configurations is illustrated in FIGS. 35Fand 35G. FIGS. 35F and 35G illustrate cross-sectional views of analternative embodiment. In FIG. 35F, which depicts a top portion of thesaddle angle adjustment assembly, the extend and retract stops 3502 and3504 which constrain the inner support 3520 with reference to the uppersupport 320 have been removed. In their place, an extend stop 3502′ hasbeen included, which stops the inner support 3520 from moving further inan extend direction by mating against a surface of the collar 2006. Inthis case, the extend stop 3502′ comprises a resilient member, such asan O-ring. In other embodiments, various other configurations may beused.

FIG. 35G illustrates an alternative retract stop for the inner support3520. In this case, the retract stop 3504′ comprises an annular ringwith a face that mates against a bottom face of the inner support 3520.As with the resilient members 3509 behind the retract stop 3508, theretract stop 3504′ also comprises one or more resilient members 3505that aid in absorbing shock when the saddle angle adjustment assemblyis, for example, quickly adjusted.

Lead Screw Saddle Adjustment Assembly

FIGS. 36A-36C illustrate another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustmentassembly 36200. The saddle angle adjustment assembly 36200 comprises alower support 310, an upper support 320, and a housing 3602 attached tothe upper support 320. In some embodiments, the housing 3602 may beintegrated into the upper support 320. The housing 3602 couples to asaddle angle adjustment mechanism 36400 comprising a saddle receiver19510 configured to couple to a saddle of a bicycle. FIG. 36Aillustrates a side view of the saddle angle adjustment assembly 36200 inan extended configuration. FIG. 36B illustrates a cross-sectional viewof the saddle angle adjustment assembly 36200 in the extendedconfiguration.

The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 36400, as illustrated in FIG. 36B,comprises a spur or helical gear 3652 and worm gear 3650 which worktogether to rotate the saddle receiver 19510. Specifically, the spur orhelical gear 3652 comprises gear teeth in a meshed engagement with ahelical worm of the worm gear 3650, wherein rotation of the helical wormtransfers force to the gear teeth, causing the spur or helical gear 3652(and the coupled saddle receiver 19510) to rotate. The worm gear 3650 isrotatably coupled to the housing 3602 such that rotation of the wormgear 3650 causes the spur or helical gear 3652 to rotate about axis 3653(oriented perpendicular to the plane of the view of FIG. 36B), causing asaddle coupled to the saddle receiver 19510 to also rotate. In someembodiments, the spur or helical gear and worm combination isself-locking, meaning the saddle will remain at a current angle evenunder an external force, until the worm gear is activated to cause thesaddle to rotate.

Various methods may be used to rotate the worm gear 3650 to causerotation of the saddle receiver 19510. In this embodiment however,rotation of the worm gear 3650 is desirably caused by a lead screw 3654being backdriven through a rotationally-constrained lead nut 3656. Thelead screw 3654 is affixed to the worm gear 3650 such that rotation ofthe lead screw 3654 about a longitudinal axis of the lead screw causesrotation of the worm gear 3650 about its longitudinal axis. In thepreferred embodiment, the lead screw 3654 and worm gear 3650 sharelongitudinal axis 3655.

In operation, when a user or rider wishes to lower the saddle post, thusrotating the saddle, the user actuates the collet actuating mechanism2102, such as by operating a control (for example, the controller 301illustrated in FIG. 1A) which pulls a cable 2103, and the colletactuating mechanism 2102 pulls on two cables 2224, which operate thecollet 2220. The collet 2220 of FIG. 36B operates similarly to thecollet 2220 of FIG. 23. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 36B, the leadscrew 3654 is configured to pass through the collet 2220, making it moredifficult to operate the collet 2220 with a single central cable (suchas the cable 2224 of FIG. 22). Accordingly, the embodiment illustratedin FIG. 36B comprises two cables 2224 spaced apart sufficiently toenable the lead screw 3654 to pass therebetween. In other embodiments,more or less cables may be utilized. When the collet 2220 disengagesfrom one of the grooves 2340, 2344, 2342 of the upper support 320, thesaddle post is free to extend or retract. When the upper support 320slides relative to the lower support 310, the lead screw 3654 translatesrelative to the lower support 310. The lead nut 3656 in some embodimentsremains stationary relative to the lower support 310. Accordingly, thelead screw 3654 is caused to backdrive through the lead nut 3656, thusrotating the worm gear 3650 and causing the saddle to rotate. As used inthis description, backdriving means converting longitudinal or axialtranslation of a lead screw into rotational motion, as opposed toconverting rotational motion of a lead screw into translational motionof a lead nut. The embodiment disclosed herein may utilize various typesof lead screws, such as a ball screw, roller screw, acme screw, and/orthe like. In some embodiments, such as when an acme screw is used, alead of the screw should be sufficiently large to enable backdriving.This is because acme screws of a shallow enough lead may not bebackdrivable. Lead screws with lower friction mechanisms, such as ballscrews and roller screws, may be able to backdrive at shallower leads.In some embodiments, the amount of rotation of the saddle is controlledby both the pitch or lead of the lead screw and the gear ratio betweenthe spur and worm gear. In some embodiments, the lead of the lead screw,meaning the amount of revolutions that occur per increment oftranslation can be configured to cause the saddle to rotate through itsentire range of rotation over the entire range of translation of theupper support 320 with respect to the lower support 310. In someembodiments, the lead or pitch of the lead screw is not constant,meaning the saddle may rotate at a faster rate during some portions ofthe lead screw travel. In such an embodiment, the lead nut may not be astandard lead nut, but may instead be a set of pins, balls, or the likethat track the non-constant lead helix. In some embodiments, the leadnut 3656 can be configured to translate over at least a predefined rangewith respect to the lower support 310, instead of being completely fixedwith respect to the lower support 310. For example, the lead nut 3656may be configured to translate such that the lead screw 3654 does notbegin backdriving immediately when the upper support 320 begins movingwith respect to the lower support 310. For example, the lead nut 3656may engage a top stop surface and a bottom stop surface within aninterior of the lower support 310, enabling the lead nut 3656 to slidefor at least a certain range with respect to the lower support 310. Insome embodiments, the lead screw is coupled to the lower support 310 andthe lead nut is coupled to the upper support 320.

FIG. 36C illustrates a perspective view of the lead nut 3656. The leadnut 3656 comprises threads 3660 configured to engage the lead screw 3654having threads 3655. The lead nut 3656 further comprises anti-rotatefeatures 3658. In this embodiment, the anti-rotate features 3658comprise a plurality of grooves positioned around an outside of the leadnut 3656. However, in various other embodiments, other anti-rotatefeatures may be used, such as pins, keys, adhesive, a press fit, and/orthe like. The lead nut 3656 further comprises opposing grooves 3657which allow the cables 2224 to pass therethrough to enable actuation ofthe collet 2220.

Electrically-Powered Saddle Angle Adjustment Mechanisms

FIGS. 37-39B illustrate various embodiments of electrically poweredsaddle angle adjusting mechanisms, such as may be used with the systemsillustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG. 37 illustrates a cross-sectionalview of a powered saddle angle adjustment mechanism that comprises ahousing 3710 attached to an upper support 320. In some embodiments, thehousing 3710 may be integrated into the upper support 320. The saddleangle adjustment mechanism 37400 further comprises a motor 3702 havingan output shaft 3704 which rotates about an axis 3705. In thisembodiment, the output shaft 3704 is coupled to a worm gear 3706 whichengages a spur or helical gear 3708. Accordingly, when the motor 3702causes the output shaft 3704 to rotate, the worm gear 3706 causes thespur or helical gear 3708 to rotate about another axis 3709 (orientedperpendicular to the plane of the view of FIG. 37). The spur or helicalgear 3708 may be connected to, for example, a saddle receiver, such asthe saddle receiver 19510 of FIG. 36A. In some embodiments, the saddleangle adjustment mechanism 37400 comprises a thrust bearing assembly3712 that engages a flange of the output shaft 3704 to decouple anyreaction forces from the spur or helical gear 3708 from the motor 3702.In some embodiments, the worm gear and spur or helical gear are not ableto be backdriven, enabling the saddle to maintain a present anglewithout requiring power to be continuously applied to the motor 3702. Insome embodiments, a gearbox may be included to enable the motor 3702 tobe presented with a desired gear ratio.

FIG. 38 depicts a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a saddleangle adjustment mechanism 38400 comprising a motor 3702. The motor 3702is coupled to a housing 3812, which in some embodiments may beintegrated into the upper support 320. The motor 3702 comprises anoutput shaft 3704 coupled to a worm gear 3706, similar to as shown inFIG. 37. However, instead of engaging a spur or helical gear, the wormgear 3706 in FIG. 38 engages a helical rack 3808 coupled to an outputshaft 3810. Accordingly, rotation of the motor's output shaft 3704causes rotation of the worm gear 3706, which causes translation of thehelical rack 3808 and output shaft 3810. The output shaft 3810 isrotatably coupled to an arm 2002 which pivots about pivot point 2004 ofthe collar 2006. Accordingly, rotational motion of the output shaft 3704of the motor is converted into translational motion of the output shaft3810, which is converted into rotation of the saddle receiver 19510about pivot point 2004. Similarly to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 37,the system illustrated in FIG. 38 may be configured to not bebackdrivable, meaning electrical power may not need to be continuouslyapplied to the motor to maintain a present angle of the saddle. Further,a gearbox may be included to present the motor with a particular gearratio.

FIGS. 39A and 39B depict another embodiment of a powered saddle angleadjustment mechanism 39400. FIG. 39A depicts a side cross-sectional viewof the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 39400, and FIG. 39B depicts atop cross-sectional view of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 39400.The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 39400 comprises a housing 3902coupled to an upper support 320 of an adjustable height saddle post. Insome embodiments, the housing 3902 may be integrated into the uppersupport 320.

The saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a motor 3702 having anoutput shaft 3704, which is coupled to a bevel gear 3904. The bevel gear3904 comprises gear teeth in meshed engagement with gear teeth ofanother bevel gear 3906, which is coupled to a saddle receiver, such asthe saddle receiver 19510 of FIG. 36A. In operation, rotation of themotor's output shaft 3704 causes the bevel gear 3904 to rotate about anaxis 3905, transferring force from the gear teeth of the bevel gear 3904to the gear teeth of the bevel gear 3906, causing the bevel gear 3906 torotate about a different axis 3907. This thus causes the saddle receiverand the coupled saddle to rotate. In some embodiments, the mechanismdepicted in FIGS. 39A and 39B can be desirable to, among other things,reduce an overall size or width of the mechanism, such as to prevent theassembly from being too wide between a rider's legs.

In some electrically-powered embodiments and various other embodimentsas disclosed herein, particularly embodiments that may be manuallybackdriven, meaning a force applied to the saddle may cause the saddleto rotate, it may be desirable to include a locking feature whichenables the saddle to remain at a specific angular orientation withoutcontinual application of electricity or power to the motor 3702.Accordingly, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 39400 furthercomprises a locking device 3908. In this embodiment, the locking device3908 comprises a brake coupled to the output shaft 3704. The brake 3908can be configured to mechanically lock or constrain the output shaft3704 in a specific orientation. Accordingly, the saddle of the bicyclecan be held in a specific orientation without requiring power to beconstantly applied to the motor 3702. In various other embodiments,various other types of locking devices may be used. For example, anactuator, such as a solenoid, coupled to a pin may be used, wherein thepin engages the output shaft 3704 or another portion of the saddle angleadjustment mechanism 39400 to lock the saddle receiver or connectedbevel gear 3906 in a particular orientation. In some embodiments, alocking mechanism may be automatically actuated along with the motor, orthe locking mechanism may be independently controlled. Althoughelectrical motors are used with various actuators as disclosed herein,some embodiments may utilize other types of motors, such as pneumatic orhydraulic motors.

Various modifications to the implementations described in thisdisclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and thegeneric principles defined herein may be applied to otherimplementations without departing from the spirit or scope of thisdisclosure. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to theimplementations shown herein, but are to be accorded the widest scopeconsistent with this disclosure, the principles and the novel featuresdisclosed herein. Additionally, a person having ordinary skill in theart will readily appreciate, the terms “upper” and “lower” are sometimesused for ease of describing the figures, and indicate relative positionscorresponding to the orientation of the figure on a properly orientedpage, and may not reflect the proper orientation of the device asimplemented.

Certain features that are described in this specification in the contextof separate implementations also can be implemented in combination in asingle implementation. Conversely, various features that are describedin the context of a single implementation also can be implemented inmultiple implementations separately or in any suitable sub combination.Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more featuresfrom a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from thecombination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a sub combination.

In describing the present technology, the following terminology may havebeen used: The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, forexample, reference to an item includes reference to one or more items.The term “ones” refers to one, two, or more, and generally applies tothe selection of some or all of a quantity. The term “plurality” refersto two or more of an item. The term “about” means quantities,dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and othercharacteristics need not be exact, but may be approximated and/or largeror smaller, as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversionfactors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factorsknown to those of skill in the art. The term “substantially” means thatthe recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achievedexactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example,tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations andother factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amountsthat do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended toprovide. Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a rangeformat. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merelyfor convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly toinclude not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limitsof the range, but also interpreted to include all of the individualnumerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if eachnumerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration,a numerical range of “about 1 to 5” should be interpreted to include notonly the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but alsoinclude individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range.Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2,3 and 4 and sub-ranges such as 1-3, 2-4 and 3-5, etc. This sameprinciple applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (e.g.,“greater than about 1”) and should apply regardless of the breadth ofthe range or the characteristics being described. A plurality of itemsmay be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these listsshould be construed as though each member of the list is individuallyidentified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual memberof such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any othermember of the same list solely based on their presentation in a commongroup without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms“and” and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are tobe interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items maybe used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term“alternatively” refers to selection of one of two or more alternatives,and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listedalternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time, unlessthe context clearly indicates otherwise.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to thepresently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent tothose skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and withoutdiminishing its attendant advantages. For instance, various componentsmay be repositioned as desired. It is therefore intended that suchchanges and modifications be included within the scope of the invention.Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages arenecessarily required to practice the present invention. Accordingly, thescope of the present invention is intended to be defined only by theclaims that follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bicycle assembly comprising a saddle adjustmentassembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprising: an adjustableheight saddle post, the adjustable height saddle post comprising firstand second slidably coupled supports, the first support configured toattach to a bicycle frame; a saddle post locking mechanism thatselectively restricts sliding of the second support relative to thefirst support; and a saddle angle adjustment mechanism configured tocouple to a bicycle saddle to enable rotation of the bicycle saddlebetween a first predetermined position and a second predeterminedposition, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism rotatably coupled to thesecond support, wherein, when the saddle post locking mechanism is in anunlocked configuration, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism enablesrotation of the bicycle saddle between the first and secondpredetermined positions, and wherein, when the saddle post lockingmechanism is in a locked configuration, the saddle angle adjustmentmechanism maintains the bicycle saddle in one of the first and secondpredetermined positions.
 2. The bicycle assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising: a third support slidably coupled to the second support,wherein sliding of the third support relative to the second supportrotates the saddle angle adjustment mechanism.
 3. The bicycle assemblyof claim 2, further comprising: first opposing stop surfaces that limitan extent of sliding of the third support relative to the second supportin an extended direction; second opposing stop surfaces that limit anextent of sliding of the third support relative to the second support ina retracted direction; third opposing stop surfaces that limit an extentof sliding of one of the second and third supports relative to the firstsupport in the extended direction; and fourth opposing stop surfacesthat limit an extent of sliding of the one of the second and thirdsupports relative to the first support in the retracted direction. 4.The bicycle assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a linear actuatorthat slides the second support relative to the first support in at leastone direction, wherein the linear actuator comprises at least one of: apneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, an electric actuator, amechanical actuator, a lead screw, and a motor.
 5. The bicycle assemblyof claim 1, wherein the saddle post locking mechanism comprises at leastone of: a radially expandable collet, a brake, a non-backdrivable leadscrew, and a motor.
 6. A bicycle assembly comprising a saddle adjustmentassembly, the saddle adjustment assembly comprising: an adjustableheight saddle post, the adjustable height saddle post comprising a firstsupport and a second support, the second support configured to beslidably moveable relative to the first support between at least araised position and a lowered position, the first support configured toattach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angle adjustment mechanism rotatablycoupled to the second support, the saddle angle adjustment mechanismconfigured to couple to a bicycle saddle; a lead nut coupled to one ofthe first and second supports; and a lead screw rotatably coupled to theother of the first and second supports, wherein rotational motion of thelead screw about a longitudinal axis of the lead screw causes the saddleangle adjustment mechanism to rotate with respect to the second support,wherein the lead screw engages the lead nut such that sliding of thesecond support relative to the first support causes the lead nut tobackdrive the lead screw.
 7. The bicycle assembly of claim 6, furthercomprising a worm gear mechanism that converts rotational motion of thelead screw about the longitudinal axis into rotational motion of thesaddle angle adjustment mechanism about the second axis.
 8. The bicycleassembly of claim 6, wherein rotational motion of the lead nut withrespect to the first support about the longitudinal axis issubstantially fixed, and wherein sliding motion of the lead nut withrespect to the first support in a direction parallel to the longitudinalaxis is restricted to a predefined range, enabling a portion of a rangeof sliding motion between the second support and first support to notcause the leadscrew to backdrive.
 9. The bicycle assembly of claim 6,further comprising a saddle post locking mechanism that selectivelyrestricts sliding of the second support relative to the first support.10. The bicycle assembly of claim 6, further comprising the bicycleframe.
 11. A bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly comprising: ahousing one of (1) coupled to and (2) integrated into a bicycle saddlepost; a saddle support configured to couple to a bicycle saddle, thesaddle support rotatably coupled to the housing such that rotation ofthe saddle support adjusts an angle of the bicycle saddle with respectto the saddle post; and a motor comprising an output member, the outputmember coupled to the saddle support such that rotational motion of theoutput member is converted into rotational motion of the saddle supportto adjust the angle of the bicycle saddle with respect to the saddlepost.
 12. The bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly of claim 11,wherein the output member is coupled to the saddle support through apower transmission mechanism that produces a mechanical advantage. 13.The bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly of claim 12, wherein thepower transmission mechanism comprises a worm drive comprising a wormdriven by the motor output member and a gear that rotates the saddlesupport meshed with the worm.
 14. The bicycle saddle angle adjustmentassembly of claim 12, wherein the power transmission mechanism comprisesa worm driven by the motor output member and a helical rack meshed withthe worm, the saddle support rotatably coupled to the helical rack,wherein linear motion of the helical rack caused by rotation of the wormcauses rotation of the saddle support.
 15. The bicycle saddle angleadjustment assembly of claim 12, wherein the power transmissionmechanism comprises a first bevel gear driven by the motor output memberand a second bevel gear that rotates the saddle support meshed with thefirst bevel gear.
 16. The bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly ofclaim 11, further comprising a locking mechanism that selectivelyrestricts rotational motion of the saddle support with respect to thehousing.
 17. The bicycle saddle angle adjustment assembly of claim 11,further comprising at least one switch electrically connected to themotor, wherein operation of the at least one switch controls poweredrotation of the output member of the motor.
 18. The bicycle saddle angleadjustment assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one switchcomprises at least one of: a rider-operatable switch coupled to abicycle handlebar, a switch coupled to the bicycle saddle post andconfigured to activate when the saddle post is in a predeterminedconfiguration, and a switch configured to activate when a predeterminedamount of force is applied to or removed from the bicycle saddle.
 19. Abicycle assembly comprising an adjustable saddle system, the adjustablesaddle system comprising: a saddle angle adjustment mechanism configuredto be coupled to a saddle post and a bicycle saddle and configured torotate the bicycle saddle with respect to the saddle post, the saddleangle adjustment mechanism comprising: a saddle angle sensor configuredto detect a rotational position of the bicycle saddle; and a motorconfigured to cause powered rotation of the saddle with respect to thesaddle post; and a saddle angle controller that controls operation ofthe motor to cause the powered rotation of the saddle based at leastpartially on a signal received from the saddle angle sensor.
 20. Thebicycle assembly of claim 19, wherein the saddle angle sensor comprisesan electronic sensor that generates an output proportional to a currentangle of the saddle.
 21. The bicycle assembly of claim 19, wherein thesaddle angle sensor comprises a limit switch that detects when thesaddle is at a predetermined angle.
 22. The bicycle assembly of claim19, further comprising a locking mechanism controlled by the saddleangle controller, wherein the locking mechanism selectively restrictsrotational motion of the saddle with respect to the saddle post.
 23. Thebicycle assembly of claim 19, wherein the saddle angle controllerenables on-demand rotation of the saddle in response to activation of arider-operatable switch, the on-demand rotation enabled only within apredefined range of saddle angle adjustment based on data received bythe saddle angle controller from the saddle angle sensor.
 24. Thebicycle assembly of claim 19, wherein the saddle post is extendable toan extended position and retractable to a retracted position, and thebicycle assembly further comprises: a saddle post position sensorconfigured to detect a position of the saddle post, wherein, in responseto the saddle post position sensor indicating to the saddle anglecontroller that the saddle post is in a predetermined position, thesaddle angle controller activates the motor to cause rotation of thesaddle.
 25. The bicycle assembly of claim 24, wherein the saddle postposition sensor comprises an electronic sensor that generates an outputproportional to a current position of the saddle post.
 26. The bicycleassembly of claim 24, wherein the saddle post position sensor comprisesa limit switch that detects when the saddle post is at a predeterminedposition.
 27. The bicycle assembly of claim 19, further comprising: arider presence sensor configured to detect a force of a rider applied tothe bicycle saddle, wherein the saddle angle controller is configured toactivate the motor to cause rotation of the saddle based at least inpart on an indication by the rider presence sensor that the bicyclesaddle is not presently supporting the rider.
 28. The bicycle assemblyof claim 19, further comprising: a frame orientation sensor configuredto detect an angle of a frame of the bicycle assembly with respect to ariding environment, wherein the saddle angle controller is configured toactivate the motor to cause rotation of the saddle based at least inpart on an indication by the frame orientation sensor that the frame iscurrently at or exceeding a predetermined angle with respect to theriding environment.
 29. The bicycle assembly of claim 19, furthercomprising the saddle post.